File No. 855.48/655
The Minister in Belgium ( Whitlock) to the Secretary of State
[Received 11.20 p.m.]
99. Your 286. I took advantage of a favorable moment this morning, De Broqueville himself having brought up the question of ravitaillement, to effect the impression desired in your despatch No. [Page 466] 286. I discussed with him for an hour stages of situation and made clear our point of view, and I think that the understanding is now excellent. De Broqueville expressed the utmost admiration for Hoover and for the work and assured me that the King and the Government understand fully the difficulties of the American Government and appreciate and are grateful for the sacrifices made. He explained that it was not the wish or intention to interfere with the Commission by requisitioning ships and said that the individual criticisms were to be regretted, that they did not represent the Government and that he would do all he could to have them discontinued. …