Edward M. House Papers
Colonel E. M. House to President Wilson
Dear Governor: I arrived here yesterday. The Peace Conference is practically a thing of the past. We have four Commissioners now here and the British have none other than Milner who will remain for only a short while. My judgment is that the sooner the Conference is wound up the better it will be for the situation at home. I notice that the republican senators say that the Conference will be in session for another six months and that the Treaty can easily be amended.
If the Conference adjourns leaving someone to sign the Bulgarian and Hungarian Treaties it would be the best solution. The Turkish Treaty will have to be taken up separately and at some more distant date.
Lloyd George wanted the Conference to adjourn immediately but Clemenceau and Polk disagreed with him. Polk thinks that within ten days it ought to adjourn temporarily until the Bulgarian and Hungarian Treaties are ready for signature. I strongly advise, therefore, that you give direction to bring matters to as speedy a conclusion as the situation admits.
There is nothing in life I would dislike more than being called before the Senate Committee. I have never had any experience in such matters. However, I am convinced that it would serve the cause well if I could be there and tell a different story from any that I have read as having been told. I could certainly put your position and your attitude while in Paris in a better light. I feel somehow that you have been crucified by your friends, perhaps not consciously but nevertheless it is a fact.
I am counting now on sailing October 8th unless you indicate a wish that I come sooner. I follow you from day to day and my heart was never so responsive to your efforts in behalf of mankind.
Affectionately yours,