Paris Peace Conf. 181.9202/262c: Telegram
The Commission to Negotiate Peace to General Bandholtz
119. For Bandholtz from Polk. Colonel Loree read me your message in regard to the necessity of your staying in Budapest until after the elections. Please cable me fully as to whether it is still necessary to keep up the Inter-Allied military organization. It would seem that some American representation is necessary but now that the Roumanians have withdrawn would it not be sufficient for you to remain as Special Commissioner representing the United States. I make this suggestion for two reasons, first because I am anxious to withdraw from all Inter-Allied military commissions as far as possible on account of the danger of becoming involved in further obligations; second because I fear that criticism at Washington will not permit us to maintain a military mission which could be charged with interfering with the internal politics of Hungary. If you stayed there as High Commissioner until Grant-Smith arrives, would it be necessary for you to continue to have as large a staff as you have at present. A frank expression of your views is desired. Polk.