851D.001/15: Telegram

Colonel John Singer of the United States Military Mission to the Secretary of State

USAFS 287. The following radiogram for Mayor Sophie, Mayor of Cayenne, from General de Gaulle has been relayed through local military radio this morning. A translation:

“I thank you for your telegram of March 24th. As soon as I became aware of the conflict caused by the simultaneous sending of telegrams, I sent a telegram to General Giraud on March 21st announcing that Mr. Bertaud had been appointed and suggesting that our Military Attaché in Washington, Colonel de Chevigné, get in touch with the colonel, jointly with him make arrangements for avoiding all incidents. Also to study between them the situation and report to me. I have not yet received reply from General Giraud. Meanwhile, National Committee maintains the appointment of Mr. Maurice Bertaud who belongs to this magnificent corps of administration of Free French Africa who, following the example of this glorious son of French Guiana, Governor General Eboué, joined the cause of freedom as early as the month of August 1940. He was born October 10th, 1901. Former pupil of the Colonial School. Doctor of law, Mr. Maurice Bertaud is moreover one of those men who has revealed himself in French Cameroun as one of the most distinguished administrators of his generation. Signed de Gaulle.”

Singer