500.A15a3/1308: Telegram
The Ambassador in Belgium (Gibson) to the Secretary of State
[Received 2:30 p.m.]
1. Reference is made to telegram No. 41, December 31 [30], 4 p.m., from the Department. A letter from Massigli, who is now on leave, states that he will come to see me here next week, in order to bring me up to date on recent negotiations and on the steps which, with a view to reaching agreement, he contemplates urging upon his Government. Through Atherton I am communicating with Craigie to learn whether there are any new developments at London which render it desirable for me to proceed there. I question the desirability, unless some way is disclosed in which I can be useful, of going either to London or Paris at this time in view of the way in which the press in both France and Italy have complicated the situation. It is my desire that anything which might introduce fresh conjectures should be avoided and I feel that it is better for me to keep in the background and hold myself in reserve in case of a hitch here and there, so long as direct negotiations continue. Your authorization for me to visit London and Paris is welcome, however, and if the situation warrants it will be acted upon.