740.0011 European War, 1939/37: Telegram

The Ambassador in Italy (Phillips) to the Secretary of State

361. My No. 355, September 1, 11 a.m. The French Ambassador saw Ciano this morning at 11:30 and gave a favorable reply on behalf [Page 407] of his Government to the proposal to call a conference of various European powers including Poland to consider the causes of existing European friction. The French Embassy is not hopeful that any result will be achieved through this action but considers that even the slightest opportunity to avert a complete catastrophe should not be missed. The Embassy staff is apparently ready to leave Italy at a moment’s notice should Italy be finally drawn into the [war?].

Phillips