851.01/2170: Telegram
The Consul General at Algiers (Wiley) to the Secretary of State
[Received 6:06 p.m.]
978. From Murphy. General de Gaulle’s reply to Giraud in translation reads as follows:
“The National Committee is of the same opinion as you that the preliminary discussions should be brought to an end and that it is necessary immediately to establish in Algiers the body which will exercise the common central power. You and I will alternately assume the presidency.
[Page 125]We are in agreement with you the responsibility of this body is collective and that the length of its functions shall be limited at the latest to the date on which the law of February 25 [15,] 1872 will permit the nation to obtain a provisional representation and constitute the Government.
With regard to the composition of this body to be created which from now will exercise the central power and with regard to other questions which remain to be settled it is understood that we will discuss them in Algiers, you and I, as well as the two persons proposed by you and two by the National Committee. I expect to arrive in Algiers the end of this week and I am pleased that shortly I shall collaborate directly with you in the service of France.”
It is understood that Catroux who is bringing the original of this communication to Algiers is due to arrive May 28 and de Gaulle is expected May 30. [Murphy.]