763.72119/3325: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Commission to Negotiate Peace
Washington
, January 10, 1919—7 p.m.
178. For the Secretary of State from Polk. I have heard from da Gama, both through Morgan and the Brazilian Chargé here, that he is very much disturbed over the report that Brazil would only be allowed two delegates and that they would not be admitted until the general conference. Apparently da Gama’s political reputation is at stake. Am taking the liberty of presenting one or two arguments that occur to me that would make it desirable to give Brazil most favored treatment in regard to delegates.
- First: Brazil has already named four delegates. It would be humiliating to have to cut the size of the delegation.
- Second: Brazil is the only power in South America that really declared war promptly and also was of material assistance in the war by active cooperation, such as sending ships.
- Third: Anything that has the appearance of a slight would of course injure Brazil’s prestige in South America and would be a source of gratification to countries such as Argentina and Chile that are jealous of their affiliations with this Government and the Allies.
- Fourth: Brazil has stood loyally by us in practically every question that has come up in South America. Therefore, it would seem entitled to every consideration and would realize that this Government was responsible for such recognition as it receives in Paris.
- Fifth: The fact that Brazil is the greatest power in South America in the war would seem to entitle it to a fair representation on account of its geographic position.
- Sixth: The President elect of Brazil has never taken office owing to ill health. There is a possibility of his resigning and a new Cabinet coming in. The fact that da Gama had failed to secure adequate representation for Brazil in Paris would be used against him and undoubtedly cause his retirement from the Cabinet.
Polk