File No. 763.72112/3058
The Ambassador in Great Britain (Page) to the Secretary of State
[Received 5.20 p. m.]
5021. From my conferences on the black list, it has occurred to me that possibly I may secure its removal in the following way:
The British to withdraw the whole American list since it gives us annoyance which they did not intend nor wish to give us.
[Page 457]We, on our side, grant the British Government’s legal right to forbid its subjects from trading with their enemies wherever domiciled. This I understand is the French law and I am told that this principle has been affirmed in a decision of the Supreme Court of Massachusetts.
If I may personally and informally suggest this plan, the British Government may express a willingness to accept it. If they do, you can then instruct me officially to propose or accept it. Please telegraph me whether this meets with your approval.