865.01/2218a: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Chargé at Algiers (Chapin)
797. For Reinhardt. With reference to Department’s earlier telegram quoting President and Prime Minister on the Italian political crisis, replies from the Prime Minister, recently received, to the President’s messages of March 8 and March 1392 are quoted below:
[Here follows the first of Churchill’s replies, message No. 618, March 13, printed on page 1043; the second reply is printed below.]
“My number 618 crossed your number 498.93 The Russians meanwhile have announced that they have sent to present Italian Government, with whom technically we are still at war, a fully credited Ambassador. Without further consideration, I do not think it would be wise to accede to the proposals of the six parties and demand immediately the abdication of the King and the installation of Signor Croce as Lieutenant of the Realm of Italy. Upon this proposal, which you properly call ‘a major political decision’, I will consult with the War Cabinet. We have suffered 232,000 casualties in our war with Italy which has lasted since June 1940, as well as extensive warship losses. That our view in this matter will receive consideration from you, I am sure. Every effort ought to be made by us to act together. Please remember that I made a public commitment on the strength of your number 46494 and that any divergence cannot possibly avoid notice.”