871.4016/273: Telegram

The Minister in Rumania (Gunther) to the Secretary of State

[Extract]

874. My despatch 2015, August 19, and telegram 831, September 15.10 Last night Mr. Mihai Antonescu, the Acting Prime Minister, spoke to me of his efforts to bring to an end the oppressive and cruel measures employed against the Jews. He complained that the excesses had been instigated by the military authorities and taken advantage of by subordinate and irresponsible people. I pointed out, however, that the sinister ball had been started rolling by the original decree providing for the execution of Jews without benefit of legal processes on mere suspicion of sabotage or sniping. He said that both he and Marshal Antonescu regretted what has been done and were doing their utmost to set matters right.

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Gunther
  1. Latter not printed.