500.A15A4 Plenary Sessions/92½
The Italian Minister for Foreign Affairs (Grandi) to the Secretary of State 44
My Dear Stimson: Enclosed herewith I am sending you copy of the speech I made last Wednesday at the Disarmament Conference.45 As you will note I am faithfully following the principles you are-acquainted with and the ideas I have on several occasions expounded to you.
I have come to Geneva with the conviction that the Conference must reach concrete results, and with the firm intention of working towards this end. The beginning of the debates I consider has been rather encouraging inasmuch as the general atmosphere appears favorable and I have the impression that the delegates intend making a real effort to achieve disarmament.
We must not of course deceive ourselves. The results will be neither very great nor final. But, as you will note in my speech, I believe that a step forward must be made and although our ultimate goal is still distant, a continuity of our efforts is absolutely necessary.
I am indeed pleased to be able to tell you that in the general spirit I am in full agreement with the American and the British Delegations. I believe we can closely collaborate for the good cause. I am however extremely sorry you are not here and that I am deprived of the advantage of your advice and of your company. I trust that general conditions will allow you to come later on.
My wife joins me in sending to Mrs. Stimson the kindest regards and I beg you to believe me
Yours very sincerely,