File No. 763.72119/302
The Consul General at Sofia (Murphy) to the Secretary of State
[Received January 2, 1917, 5 p. m.]
Referring circular 18th.1 Bulgarian Foreign Minister responds following:
I have had the honor to receive the letter you were pleased to address to me on the 28th of this month to acquaint me with the step taken by Mr. President Wilson in favor of peace, and I hasten to communicate to you the following answer of the Bulgarian Government:
The generous initiative of the President of the United States, tending to create bases for the restoration of peace, was cordially received and taken into consideration by the Royal Government in the same friendly spirit which is evidenced by the presidential communication. The President indicates the object he has at heart and leaves open the choice of the way leading to that object. The Royal Government considers a direct exchange of views to be the most efficacious way to attain the desired end. In accordance with its declaration of the 12th of December instant, which extends a hand for peace negotiations, it has the honor to propose an immediate meeting at one place of delegates of the belligerent powers. The Royal Government shares the view that the great undertaking which consists in preventing future war can only be initiated after the close of present conflict of nations. When that time comes, the Royal Government will be glad to cooperate with the United States of America and other neutral nations in that sublime endeavor.
Be pleased [etc.]
Doctor Radoslavoff
Chargé d’Affaires left December 24. In his absence felt it my duty present note embodying circular 18th carrying out instructions. Someone should be empowered to act, Department’s telegram to Warfield only instructing archives be turned over.