760F.62/1133: Telegram

The Ambassador in the United Kingdom (Kennedy) to the Secretary of State

1040. Referring to your No. 564, September 27, 1 a.m. Talked with Halifax and also 10 Downing Street. They have had no reply yet except from Wilson regarding his interview of 50 minutes last night which was completely and definitely unsatisfactory. Hitler figuratively slammed the door in Wilson’s face. He did agree to see him this morning but Wilson held out no hope. We have received a bulletin that Wilson has left by airplane but neither the Prime Minister nor Halifax have heard this. Halifax is almost positive that Hitler does not intend to help the situation. They will both advise me immediately on Wilson’s arrival or as soon as they get news from him.

Will you tell the President that not only did last night’s papers play up tremendously his message but again this morning with very praiseworthy editorials. As a matter of fact it helped offset a good deal of bitterness that had arisen as a result of the terrific blast from the American newspapers on the question of the betrayal of Czechoslovakia.

On my way to the office this morning saw antiaircraft guns being placed in Hyde Park and hundreds of men digging trenches.

Kennedy