751G.00/4–2654: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Secretary of State, at Geneva1
Tedul 13. Just completed briefing session as you suggested. Following were present: Senators H. Alexander Smith, Hickenlooper, Langer, Fulbright, Gillette, Mansfield; Representatives Chiperfield, Vorys, Fulton, Smith of Wisconsin, Carnahan, Zablocki and Burleson; Clerks of Committees Francis Wilcox and Boyd Crawford.
I was actually surprised by the restrained gravity of all who participated. With no carping questions or criticisms, there appeared to be full realization of the seriousness of the situation, and among the Congressional group there was open discussion of the passage of resolution authorizing use of air and naval strength following a declaration of common intent, with, or possibly even without, British participation. All concerned waiting with great interest developments of next two days.
- Drafted by the Acting Secretary.↩