740.0011 EW 1939/34173c: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Minister in Switzerland (Harrison)
1587. For Tittmann. For your secret information we would of course observe with interest the activities of any neutral commission which might be established with a view to saving Rome from the ravages of war. Bearing this in mind you should seek an early occasion for conversation with the Cardinal Secretary of State and in the course of your visit, but not indicating it as the reason for seeking the appointment, you should show discreet interest in the current rumors concerning the possible setting up of such a commission. You should not in any way convey the impression that you or your Government are now promoting or sponsoring the formation of the commission or that, if it were established, its recommendations might be acceptable to us.
You might mention in your discretion that should the commission be established you believe that the United States which has always shared the anxiety of the Holy Father for the preservation of Rome, would observe the functions of such a commission with interest.
Please report by telegraph the reaction of the Vatican with your comments on any current report in Vatican circles concerning steps which the Vatican may be contemplating or now taking toward the formation of such a commission and the extent to which it is believed that the Pope might be inclined to participate.