550.S1/1120: Telegram
The Chairman of the American Delegation (Hull) to the Acting Secretary of State
[Received July 6—7:55 p.m.]
107. After a busy day I feel that the plans of the five gold countries and certain defeatist elements to virtually close out the Conference have been definitely defeated at least for the present and the Conference again faced in the desired direction of continuous sessions until its work is concluded. Chamberlain42 and Bennett43 speaking for England, Canada and the entire Empire, earnestly seconded my address at opening of Bureau meeting urging that Conference continue in session and perform its full task. These were followed by Viscount Ishii44 and the Chinese delegate and a spokesman for the Scandinavian countries each earnestly supporting my proposal. The only opposition came from the five gold standard countries and Spain. Naturally the malcontents including selfish interests opposed to purposes of Conference have succeeded somewhat in confusing and demoralizing the sessions during recent days.
It is very vital that as definite instructions as possible on each important phase of the monetary and economic problems be forwarded to us just as soon as possible. Original instructions and more recent data sent are almost entirely of a general nature and hence virtually without value. The Bureau or Steering Committee meets Monday to decide on full list of questions on both monetary and economic side that will be given consideration by the Conference. On that day the gold standard countries will have their last chance for decision on whether to join in the permanent proceedings with most monetary questions to be considered or endeavor to disrupt Conference by walking out. I learned today that at the 6 o’clock meeting Monday they intended to drive through the Bureau a resolution adjourning the Conference and personating you as being responsible. We hope real soon to have enough definite concrete proposals from Washington to make suitable showing on both the economic and monetary sides.