611.5131/1074: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in France (Straus)
154. Department’s 136, April 16, 1 p.m. Garreau-Dombasle telephoned from New York this morning to say that he had received an [Page 219] important telegram from his Government, a part of which he translated as follows:
“In the course of the negotiations the French Government will examine with the desire to reach a satisfactory solution the requests formulated by the American Government, and will receive them favorably to the whole extent which the actual situation of French economy will permit.”
I would appreciate your ascertaining discreetly from the Foreign Office whether this communication from Garreau-Dombasle has been authorized and represents the views of the French Government. I feel that the above quotation probably meets our request for a broadening of the scope of the negotiations, and we are considering giving public notice of intention to negotiate on Tuesday next. Before doing so I should appreciate having benefit of your own reactions. I presume that Laboulaye has kept in touch with you.