File No. 102.1/454b

The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Great Britain ( Page )

[Telegram]

6039. For Crosby from Leffingwell:

Treasury No. 26. So far as Serbian prisoners’ relief is concerned, messages seemed to have crossed each other and confusion resulted from fact that impression existed that American Red Cross proposed to assume entire charge and entire expense for Serbian prisoners of war. In fact American Red Cross is merely ready to assume charge provided funds are supplied by Serbian Government. British and French seem to have been ready to provide funds alone in accordance with memorandum cabled you, Treasury No. 13, but apparently are now prepared to turn over whole matter to American Red Cross, and in that case will regard themselves as relieved of all financial responsibility. Do not see why they should not participate with United States Government in financial support necessary to maintain Serbian prisoners’ relief, whatever may be instrument of extending that relief. Cooperation of British and French Governments is necessary to assure supplies getting forward to their destination, and it is believed that best interests of Serbia as well as reasons of general policy require that this, like other similar matters, should be handled by the three together. Much impressed by distressing reports as to condition of Serbian prisoners and by fact that none of supplies forwarded by American Red Cross appear yet to have reached them. Hope you can agree with British and French on prompt measures assuring joint support in money, ships, railroad transportation, and possibly supplies.

Lansing