File No. 763.72/4321

The Acting Secretary of State to the Minister in Haiti ( Bailly-Blanchard)

[Telegram]

Your May 3, 3 p.m. You will immediately call upon the Minister for Foreign Affairs and inform him that the Government of the United States has been closely watching the attitude of the Government of Haiti with reference to the present situation and wishes that Government to understand that it must decide promptly whether or not Haiti will align herself with the United States, France, and other great powers in the fight for humanity in the present worldwide conflict.

You will also make it clear that any action by Haiti, such as has been recommended by its President to the National Assembly, must be done immediately in order to be beneficial and to be appreciated by the other nations.

Further delay on the part of Haiti would tend to place her in a difficult position as neutral countries must depend upon their own resources in time of war.

You will inform General Cole of the receipt of this telegram and will show it to him.

Polk