865.01/2467: Telegram
The Consul General at Naples (Brandt) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 29—6:48 a.m.]
95. From Kirk. My 87, May 25, 9 p.m. [a.m.]. MacFarlane reports that at Royal request he went to Ravello yesterday and saw King and Crown Prince alone. His majesty read to MacFarlane a letter which Badoglio had sent to the King outlining preliminary arrangements regarding Rome made by Badoglio and MacFarlane.
At King’s request MacFarlane confirmed contents of letter. His Majesty expressed the hope that Badoglio in reforming his government in Rome would include Liberal Democrats and urged strongly that he be permitted to enter Rome and there transfer officially royal powers to Crown Prince. King gave MacFarlane a short note stating his case and MacFarlane promised to transmit his request to proper quarters and to obtain an early reply.
King inquired whether he could move from Ravello to Naples when Allies reach Rome expressing preference for Villa Emma to be near to Crown Prince before latter moved to Rome. MacFarlane promised to have this question considered.
MacFarlane comments that until such time as Crown Prince and Government have been established for some time in Rome he is opposed strongly to allowing King to enter Rome.
After audience with King, MacFarlane saw Badoglio who expressed strong opposition to permitting King to go to Rome adding that he thought such action might prejudice gravely prospects of Crown Prince and his government.
It is MacFarlane’s opinion that King should be held strictly to his promise to transfer power to Crown Prince “as soon as Allied troops reach Rome”.
MacFarlane has requested authorization from AFHQ to notify King in name of SAC that until Crown Prince and Government are installed in Rome King will not be allowed to move to Naples. [Kirk]