File No. 763.72119/8267
The Ambassador in Great Britain ( Page) to the Secretary of State
[Received 6.45 p.m.]
5725. My 5714, February 20. There are two facts that might have been and perhaps ought to have been emphasized more strongly in that telegram: One is the Prime Minister’s fear of publicity. I assured him that extraordinary precautions would be taken. The other fact is the earnestness with which any proposal officially received will be considered.
The Prime Minister’s first mood has been completely changed; it was shared and urged as nearly as I can find out chiefly by Curzon, but the Navy in particular and presumably the Army are anxious to cause the possible detachment of Austria-Hungary and their pressure I believe changed the Prime Minister’s first view.
If this can be accomplished, they will expect a very much earlier end of the war. Your efforts will be fully and generously appreciated.