793.94/4432: Telegram
The Minister in Switzerland (Wilson) to the Secretary of State
[Received February 26—10:35 a.m.]
39. Your letter to Senator Borah has caused the widest interest. Simon has informed me regarding cooperative policy of powers in Shanghai to prevent Japan’s use of International Settlement for debarkation of troops and bombardment in threatening places. Grandi informed me of same action.
Simon also said that he had talked to you over the telephone, that you felt that the time was perhaps not ripe for action under Nine-Power Treaty and that he would keep me consistently [constantly?] informed of developments.
The question of an invitation to the United States to participate in the Assembly continues to be discussed but there seems to be a growing feeling that it would be inadvisable to issue it. This thought is based on the difficulty of Russian participation, on the possible embarrassment to us and on doubts as to the legality of such invitation. Also the clear expression of your views in letter to Senator Borah lets them know where we stand.
The campaign for an economic boycott in the United States is being watched with close interest and is also giving rise to discussion. My associates and I are inclined to think that the Assembly may find it premature to enter upon this question and before every other effort leading to peace has been exhausted. For instance it might be possible for the Assembly to call on the belligerents to accept in advance the arrangements for an armistice to be made by the large powers represented in Shanghai by their ministers and military advisors. If Japan should refuse to accept, the refusal would strengthen public opinion in support of stronger measures which might then become necessary.
I learn on responsible authority that Karl Radek telegraphed Moscow last night a long analysis of your letter with comment to the effect that it was the most effective step yet taken to exert pressure on Japan and at the same time to reduce the risk of war.