500.A15/450: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Chief of the American Representation on the Preparatory Commission ( Gibson )
98. Owing to late arrival of your telegrams on statement you propose to make, it is impossible for me to examine matter carefully and advise you tonight. I think, however, that in main it is too much an endorsement of League supervision, as our argument has always been not only that such supervision could not be accepted by us but that it is vicious in principle as its only effect will be to create distrust and suspicion between nations. In addition I do not think that we are justified in saying that we have no intention at present of materially increasing our land forces. Your draft will be considered and reply sent some time tomorrow.