File No. 855.48/161
The Acting Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Germany (Gerard)
1091. Hoover cables from London proceeding to Berlin to make representations to German Government that if they would agree to stop all requisitions of every character and would do so conditionally upon Allies giving adequate financial support to the relief commission, he has reason to believe that he can secure large help from Allied Governments. While Department would prefer to have any such negotiations conducted privately rather than through official channels, it may not be inappropriate for you to mention, entirely unofficially, that many prominent Americans who are interested in sending foodstuffs to Belgium at the present time are making inquiries of the Department in regard to the German levies, and are convinced that in order to continue successfully raising the necessary funds in the United States it is essential that monetary indemnities should cease. Department relies upon your discretion in handling this matter.