763.72119/6463: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Commission to Negotiate Peace
3023. Your 3921, August 27, 10 p.m. and 3996, September 1, 1 p.m.5
It is the President’s view that the Council of the League of Nations ought not to come into being until at least four of the great powers and a majority of the minor powers which have membership on the Council have ratified the treaty. If the work of the League should [Page 7] be begun by a minority there would be lack of moral authority and the organization would wear the aspect of an alliance. That should be avoided until it is certainly known how many will adhere to the treaty. When it is definitely known those adhering should go forward with the organization. The President wished me to say for your information that he is confident the United States will join the League by ratifying the treaty.
- Latter not printed.↩