890D.01/9–944: Telegram
The Diplomatic Agent and Consul General at Beirut (Wadsworth) to the Secretary of State
[Received 3:52 p.m.]
182. On September 7 I handed identic notes to Lebanese and Syrian Foreign Ministers6 as directed in Deptel 134 September 5, 7 p.m.
Yesterday I received Syrian Government’s reply and this morning that of the Lebanese Government. Written in English, both cite essential portions of my notes, give requested assurances textually as set forth therein, express appreciation of friendly attitude of United States Government and welcome and accept proposal to exchange ministers.
Copies of four notes are forwarded to Department under cover of despatch No. 5127 airmailed today.
[Page 776]It is indeed most agreeable to me that the President should desire that I be appointed Minister near the two Governments. On my informing Foreign Ministers of the very real satisfaction which such appointment would afford me, should it be agreeable to them, each asked me cordially to convey to you his Government’s formal agreement.
Both Ministers expressed desire that texts of exchanges of notes be made public so soon as possible. They inquire whether it is your wish that this be done simultaneously here and in Washington. I should appreciate receiving Department’s instructions on this point.
On evening of presentation of notes I broke Ramadan Fast with the Syrian President.8 He too expressed keenest satisfaction, adding in substance:
“My country, I too believe, has merited your Government’s confidence. My dearest hope is that it will continue to do so and that I shall continue to merit that of President Roosevelt. Please tell them I sincerely believe that we shall.”
Repeated to Caserta for Murphy.9