500.A15a3/1254: Telegram
The Chargé in France (Armour) to the Secretary of State
[Received 11:30 a.m.]
361. Information, which seems reliable, has been received to the effect that the French Ministry of Marine and Louis Aubert, who was at the London Naval Conference with Tardieu, have every confidence in Gibson’s ability and disinterestedness and very much hope that his good offices may be available in any negotiations looking to a solution of the naval situation that may be carried on between France and Italy. Information has also been received that Aubert, [Page 176] in view of the above, has advised Tardieu that instructions to keep Gibson fully informed of all developments should be given to the French delegation at Geneva.
My own knowledge of Tardieu’s friendship for and confidence in Gibson confirms the above. As the Department is aware, I was present at the interview between Gibson and Tardieu on October 27 of this year. On that occasion it was very evident that this confidence of Tardieu in Gibson and in his sincerity largely contributed to the favorable reception which the new suggestions received from Tardieu and the French.
Feeling that these impressions might be useful as background in case they should fit in with your information from other sources, I take the liberty of submitting them to you.