740.0011 PW/7–745

No. 237
The Acting Secretary of State to the Italian Ambassador (Tarchiani)
secret

My Dear Mr. Ambassador: With reference to our conversation of yesterday,1 in which you told me of the decision of the Italian Government to declare war against Japan, I need not assure you that this news will be greeted with approval by the American people.

The time of the announcement of the declaration is of course a matter for decision by the Italian Government. The British, French, and Soviet Governments, which have already been informed of American approval of the Italian intention to declare war against Japan, have interposed no objection thereto, and the American Government naturally hopes that the announcement will be made at an early date.

Sincerely yours,

Joseph C. Grew