865.00/4–2048: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Embassy in Italy
urgent
1131. You may say to De Gasperi we are reassured by Ital Govt’s public declarations that firm, unhesitating action will be taken in event attempts challenge govt’s authority prior convocation Parliament. We are confident of Ital Govt’s ability maintain law and order, but would of course support them in any way practicable and appropriate shd they find it necessary to call upon us for further assistance.
[Page 877]You will understand, of course, that no specific commitment could be undertaken at this stage, and shd make this plain to De Gasperi. It shd also be made clear that our support would not contemplate assistance of US armed forces.