File No. 763.72/3833
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in France ( Sharp)
2147. Please inform the Foreign Office that this Government is deeply gratified to learn of the proposed visit of Viviani, Marshal Joffre, and the distinguished party that will accompany them. We should be glad if it were possible for them to arrive at Hampton Roads, where they will be met by representatives of this Government and escorted to Washington. It is understood that the party can remain in the United States only ten or twelve days. It is earnestly hoped that during this time they will consent to be the guests of the nation. The American people will understand and appreciate the honor done them by the visit of these illustrious Frenchmen who have contributed so largely to the cause which we have now made our own. The welcome of this Government will be merely an earnest of the admiration and affection of the entire American people.2 Cable reply.
- The French mission arrived in Washington Apr. 25. See the preceding footnote.↩