740.5/8–2254: Telegram
The Chargé in the United Kingdom (Penfield) to the Department of State 1
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909. Strictly limited distribution. Upon receipt Brussels telegram 1702 action taken as instructed Deptel 1041.3 Only change made in message to Churchill was substitution of words “our Embassy” for “Winthrop” in view absence Ambassador (see Embtel 809, August 16).4 Messages should have reached Churchill at Chartwell before noon.
At Downing Street’s suggestion copies of messages also handed Kirkpatrick. He said he felt they would fit in closely with Churchill’s [Page 1069] thinking. He added parenthetically that when he asked Churchill yesterday whether he had any message for Mendes he replied “No, unless it is to tell him not to follow in the path of Petain.”
Speaking personally, Kirkpatrick said he felt there should be US–UK Adenauer meeting perhaps in connection with meetings suggested by Secretary in order make sure what is now practical from German viewpoint. He mentioned in this connection this morning’s news of defection of a West German Bundestag member as evidence of deteriorating situation in Federal Republic. He also speculated upon whether it might be advisable include Italy in Secretary’s proposed meeting in order to give greater impression European unity and avoid driving Italy into France’s arms. Kirkpatrick retains a hope if not expectation that French will at eleventh hour finally ratify.
In view prolongation Brussels meeting Mendes now plans arrive here at 11 tomorrow morning and lunch with Churchill at Chartwell. Foreign Office expects to announce visit tonight and requests information be held very closely until announcement made. Kirkpatrick said Churchill is well aware that Mendes will try to use meeting to show he still has a friend and that Churchill will see that no opportunity is given Mendes to exploit this angle.