701.6511/813: Telegram

The Chargé in Italy (Kirk) to the Secretary of State

214. Department’s 67, June 13, 2 p.m. The matter of the requirements of the addition of the title of Emperor to that of King of Italy [Page 244] in the case of letters of credence has recently been discussed in diplomatic circles here with special reference to the appointment of a new Chilean Ambassador and Egyptian Minister and the belief has been generally expressed in those circles that the use of the two titles would be required by the Italian authorities. In the last day or two Foreign Office officials have brought up this matter in informal conversation and have said that they are trying to find some solution. They maintain that there is no intention to raise in this way the question of the recognition of Italian sovereignty over Ethiopia but that the decree law of May 14, see my despatch No. 1693, May 21,7 and telegram 178, May 26, 7 p.m.,8 provides for the use of both titles in all formal acts in the name of the King and consequently those titles should appear on the documents relating to the appointment of Italian ambassadors or ministers. It was intimated, however, that these considerations need not necessarily apply in the case of the appointment of foreign representatives but this was merely an individual opinion expressed in the course of conversations.

I was given to understand that there was no intention to hasten Rosso’s departure from Washington for his new post at Moscow.

Kirk
  1. Not printed.
  2. Ante, p. 201.