868.00/12–547: Telegram
The Chargé in Greece (Keeley) to the Secretary of State
us urgent
2101. Venizelos granted diplomatic 3(2) visa yesterday (Dec. 4) and sailed for US today on Vulcania. Vessel had already left harbor before Deptel 19641 came to my attention (code text received here at 11:30 a. m. today but being unmarked as to urgency was decoded in its turn as routine and reached action officers only at 5:30 p. m. after vessel had sailed).
In view recent morale of Greek Government following communication today by AMAG of Department’s gold decision (Gama 540, Dec. 1) and other adverse factors in Greek situation, Embassy considers it unwise dishearten Greeks further by communicating Department’s views (1964) at this time. Should Venizelos broach subjects embarrassing to Department or otherwise attempt to go over heads of US representatives Athens, Department might more appropriately then make its attitude known to him and through him to Sophoulis.
As Amag 542, Nov. 26, and my 2060 Nov. 29 should indicate, we here are fully in accord in realizing “full extent and nature of peril to Greece” and, incidentally, to Europe and to US if Greece is permitted to go under. Considering limitations aid law and restrictive decisions, of which Gama 540 is good illustration in respect of one item (gold), [Page 436] we have not felt that we could let PriMin or other Greek officials realize how serious we consider situation to be. If NY Times article correctly depicts PriMin’s feelings, he may have come to conclusion that we are unable to grasp realities of situation that others on spot, particularly those having responsibility of government here, feel are self-evident.
Our impression is, however, that he has not lost confidence in our ability accurately to appraise situation but rather that he feels that Congress needs to be convinced that unforeseen developments since aid bill was voted now require more aid immediately.
In circumstances, it may be good thing for Department to hear Venizelos out and it may even find him useful advocate before Congress.
Embassy is now working on review of entire situation and hopes telegraph summary its views within few days.