851B.20/56: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Consul General in Martinique (Malige)
115. For Reber from Atherton.98 The Secretary feels you should remain at Fort de France.
[Page 638]The lengthy memorandum to which you refer in your 199, May 30, 5 p.m.99 which only constitutes “a provisional reply” leads him to believe Admiral Robert does not yet understand the situation and that this Government is not willing to proceed into lengthy or protracted negotiations. The war mentality of this country is looking for an immediate solution to this problem which is receiving increased attention. The interests of other governments in this hemisphere has to be considered especially those which join the United Nations. Reports of sinkings and attacks on commercial and naval vessels from submarines operating within the 3-mile limit even though exaggerated naturally arouses suspicion in the public mind that only an immediate and satisfactory ending to these discussions can allay.
We have endeavored in all possible ways to appreciate the French point of view by the very nature of our proposals, by blocked fund releases and economic assistance, by ship clearances, by restraint of press and unfounded criticisms. We have dispatched Admiral Hoover with instructions and authority to negotiate.
Laval has not only made public our proposals but also his instructions to Robert.
For all these reasons you should remain in Fort de France that you may by your very presence there indicate to Robert the situation is pressing, that our position is taken, and a failure by him to reach an immediate agreement with Admiral Hoover must necessarily and progressively undermine confidence as to French intent and French policy in these possessions now under French Sovereignty but within our defense area. Will you take early occasion to make this clear and report.
Suggest you inform Admiral Hoover of contents of this cable by daily mail plane. [Atherton.]