500.A15a3/1306a: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Belgium (Gibson)
41. Yesterday Mr. Castle was informed by the Italian Ambassador that the suggestions for an agreement made to them by Craigie were [Page 186] being considered in the most cordial way by the Italian Government, and that the interest of the British and American Governments in bringing about such an agreement was greatly appreciated by the Italian Government. It was further stated by the Ambassador that Mr. Grandi, however, wished to point out that things were made much more difficult by the malevolent attitude taken toward these conversations by the French press. I have stated at different times, in reply to questions from the press, that you were authorized to do anything, in the interests of settling this question, that in your judgment you thought might be helpful.
It might be well, therefore, if you think it wise, for you to get in touch with the appropriate people in London and go down for a talk with the appropriate people in the new Government in Paris. Authorization is hereby given you to proceed to London and/or Paris, and should you do so, you may furnish a copy of this telegram to the Embassy there.