Office of the Historian

Paris Peace Conf. 181.9202/248: Telegram

The Commission to Negotiate Peace to General Bandholtz

Paris, November 17, 1919—9 p.m.

105. For Bandholtz from Polk. Your 205 just received.69 I quite agree with Sir George Clerk that it would be most unfortunate for Horthy to begin by arresting Social Democrats unless there is positive evidence of their having committed crimes. Use all your influence to keep Horthy and Friedrich from playing the fool. Any campaign against the Socialists at this time would have a most unfortunate effect in the capitals of the world and would more or less justify the claims of the Roumanians that their presence in Budapest was necessary in order to keep the peace. If Horthy and Friedrich continue their campaign I do not see how it will be possible for the Peace Conference to insist on the Roumanians withdrawing further. Polk.

Am[erican] Mission
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