500.A15A4 General Committee/413: Telegram
The Chairman of the American Delegation (Davis) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 27—9:40 a.m.]
667. On Friday evening Simon and I had a very frank talk with Boncour. We pointed out that the altered policy of Germany was throwing the burden on France and that unless they were to create sympathy for Hitler they must state their willingness to go a long way on part II of the British plan and commit themselves definitely to disarmament making such commitment contingent on security and control. Nevertheless the time had now come when they must state what they were willing to do. Boncour was very difficult but at the end of the discussion gave us hope that he would come through and in the relatively near future.
From a series of conversations yesterday I have received word that Daladier is favorable to a meeting of the Chiefs of Government of Great Britain, Italy, Germany and with me representing the President, provided the meeting is held in Switzerland, that the President, Henderson, and the Rapporteur, Benes of the Disarmament Conference are also present so as to bring it within the framework of the Conference. Daladier is so overwhelmed with work of the budget that he cannot be available until June 2nd, Friday, or any day thereafter. Simon and I therefore contemplate working with Boncour the first days of the week here in Geneva and to endeavor to arrange the conversations between the Chiefs of State for Friday in some town in Switzerland. There is, however, serious danger that Daladier may not survive the Carlsbad [budget?] vote on June 1st and thus our plans will be upset and postponed.
Boncour appears to be less disposed than Daladier towards this meeting and takes the position that France should not deal with Germany except in public and before the entire General Commission. I hope, however, that given Daladier’s attitude of acquiescence we can bring Boncour around before Friday. In order to make him feel happier about this matter and give him the impression he is dealing with friendly powers Simon and I anticipate working with him early next week on France’s attitude toward part II of the British plan.