File No. 763.72/7653
The Ambassador in Italy ( Page) to the Secretary of State
[Received November 11, 12.15 a.m.]
1206. Both Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs spoke most earnestly of the great aid that America would render cause if she declared war on Austria or sent troops here, even 5,000 men with the starry flag, as Orlando termed it, sent immediately would have great effect. Sonnino stated that the Germans have 300,000 men now thrown against Italy. He declared that Italy could not ask for troops because should America decline such a request it would have disastrous effect but he added that if America would meet this situation and offer troops, even 5,000 men with flag, it would be a beau geste and he declared that Italy and himself grateful for what we have already done. I feel that declaration of war with Austria, if it can be done, or a promise to send troops to unite with Italy and her allies in repelling Germans from Italy might prove the turning point of the war. Either would have enormous moral effect.