862.00/857: Telegram
The Commissioner at Berlin (Dresel) to the Acting Secretary of State
[Received March 22—10:35 a.m.]
209. Under Secretary of State Von Haniel informed me this morning that serious danger exists that radical elements in Berlin would declare a communist republic this afternoon. He has received from the Allied Chargés the following declaration:
“The British, Italian and Belgian Chargés visited Vice Chancellor Schiffer this morning to congratulate the Government on the rapid eviction of the so-called Kapp government. Furthermore, it was emphasized that the Entente representatives had no relations or sympathies with the usurpers but stood entirely on the side of the constitutional government. It is hoped that the new serious crisis brought about by the continuation of the general strike will be overcome as soon as possible in favor of democratic ideas. For what Germany needs is order and labor. The British Chargé d’Affaires added that in his opinion the provision of foodstuffs, raw materials and credits would be possible only if constitutional conditions prevailed in Germany and that no such assistance could be considered further if quiet and order were disturbed from either extreme.”
He requested a statement from me and I have given him the following:
“The American Commissioner expressed his satisfaction over the recent elimination of militaristic elements and the quick disappearance [of Kapp] régime. He is convinced that American public opinion will view with extreme disapproval all attempts from whatever side to interfere with orderly and stable conditions. Acts of violence and endeavors to revolutionize the Government by unconstitutional methods will not fail to imperil the reestablishment of good relations with the United States. Such actions will also seriously interfere with the readjustment of Germany and the amelioration of the present unfavorable economic conditions by the measures of relief which have been projected and already initiated.”