865.01/979: Telegram
The Chargé at Algiers (Chapin) to the Secretary of State
[Received 11:28 p.m.]
271. From L’Heureux. Our 216, January 22. MacFarlane reports that in talks with the King and Badoglio January 24 both again strongly urged that they be permitted to enter Rome as soon as possible after occupation by Allies. They contended it was imperative that the King contact leading politicians in Rome and attempt to form a broad based Government as quickly as possible. Badoglio reiterated that he felt entering Rome with the King would mark the end of his task and that he did not intend to remain in office after [Page 1009] that although he always would be loyally at Allied disposal. Mac-Farlane said he told Badoglio and the King that consideration is being given to the question of their entering Rome. [L’Heureux.]