501 BB Palestine/3–2949: Telegram
The Minister in Lebanon (Pinkerton) to the Secretary of State
152. Palun 100. [From Ethridge.] ReDeptel 148, March 28, USDel position has been that it will consider any meeting place when it becomes obvious that talks can be held or that they will be fruitful. In meantime, we expect no commitment nor have Arabs agreed to further talks. Arabs are canvassing among themselves now and will give reply to Commission within day or two. Question of meeting place will then come up as Arabs have been asked to indicate their preference.
My own feeling as stated in Commission has been that it is preferable to meet in this part of the world. Jerusalem is out because Arabs consider they would compromise themselves if they negotiated in [garble] Rhodes is distasteful to them psychologically. Tentatively most of the [Page 884] Arab Delegates have said they prefer Geneva although currency difficulties there very great for most of them. Boisanger has not committed himself directly although in Commission he has frequently referred to Geneva as a possibility. Yalcin definitely is against Rhodes and favors Geneva possibly under instruction as Turks have [garble] claim on Rhodes. Jews have indicated to Boisanger preference for Geneva.
Strongest argument against Geneva to my mind is that unless Arabs send missions empowered to negotiate and sign, there will be constant shuttling back and forth to me, thus prolonging any negotiations and giving the situation time to deteriorate more. If, however, Arabs agree to talks and indicate preference for Geneva, I will have to agree and undertake to impress upon them desirability from their point of view of sending strong delegates.
We concur fully view contained and action proposed last paragraph reference telegram. [Ethridge.]