Paris Peace Conf. 184.1 Polk, Frank L.: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Commission to Negotiate Peace
[Received June 24—9 a.m.]
2381. Your 2709, June 21. Strictly confidential for the Secretary of State.
[Page 597]I am strongly of opinion that your presence here during debate on treaty is essential. It is daily brought home to us the necessity of having some one in the Department with whom friends of the administration can freely consult in connection with treaty. You have confidence of Congress and can speak with authority of your experience and your high office.
I am naturally deeply gratified at the suggestion of my assuming duties of Commissioner and grateful for the thought. Would it be possible for me to delay decision until I see you here as I would like to have some idea as to how long it would take and know something about the character of work. It will be necessary for me to make some plans for my family as I hesitate to take five children abroad for the winter and yet do not like to leave them, and I will also have to consult my doctor and get his opinion as to my undertaking this work. Is it essential that your successor go over at once? I hope not.