765.84/127: Telegram (part air)

The Consul at Geneva ( Gilbert ) to the Secretary of State

24. Consulate’s 21, January 16, 10 a.m.

1.
The Italians are making every effort to have the Abyssinians withdraw their invocation of the Covenant. Avenol6 stated to the Abyssinian delegate that the Italians had informed him that they would regard a bringing of the matter before the Council while direct negotiations were in progress as prejudicial to a friendly settlement.
2.
The Abyssinians do not consider that the present direct conversations constitute negotiations in any acceptable sense and are standing upon their appeal. In this they are acting under instructions.
Gilbert
  1. Joseph L. A. Avenol, Secretary General of the League of Nations.