851.48/292

Memorandum of Conversation, by the Secretary of State

The British Ambassador, accompanied by the Australian Minister,29 called at his request.

I brought up the question of relief to unoccupied France and covered the entire situation, pro and con. I remarked with emphasis that, unless the British allowed a little flexibility in this matter, the French would become further inflamed against them and against us as well, and we could not be responsible for keeping the French fleet out of German hands; that we have been working day and night with respect to the fleet situation and other vital phases, including that of discouraging actual fighting between the French and the British.

I then said that the French were making most earnest representations in the matter, and that there may be an early explosion. Hence I felt it due the British that they should know this. I said that Lazarus, in a state of great hunger, felt extremely grateful to the rich man when he was permitted to pick up a few crumbs that fell from his table, and that this was human nature today.

The Ambassador agreed to give the matter further attention and let me hear from him soon.

C[ordell] H[ull]
  1. Richard G. Casey.