File No. 871.51/56
The Chargé in Rumania ( Andrews) to the Secretary of State
[Received September 8, 10.30 a.m.]
From the time of the entry the war of the United States the Roumanian Government, conscious of the heroism of its Army in force without reserves and doing double duty by reason of the partial failure of the Russian Army to defend its fronts and of the desperate situation of the country, has shown an eagerness for material help from the American Government which has latterly approached a certain impatience. While I have consistently avoided anything beyond expressing the general sympathy felt by the American people and Government towards its ally Roumania, it must be admitted that the speech of General Scott made by him to the assembled Roumanian Parliament was such as would be portrayed by such a people as constituting concrete promise that the United States intended to help Roumania.1
[Page 728]The Prime Minister has exposed such an attitude of veiled impatience towards America’s lack of official recognition of Roumania’s aspirations in regard to Transylvania that I recently found it advisable in conversation with the Prime Minister to recall to His Excellency’s attention the fact that the United States is at war with only the German Empire.
Referring to my 117, August 18.1 The loyal elements in the Roumanian Government have lately been having to oppose a hidden and while not strong yet potentially dangerous movement towards a separate Roumanian peace with Germany and Austria-Hungary. In my opinion a definite assurance given directly from this Government of help in money or equipment would strengthen the loyal elements in Roumania and would greatly encourage the nation in general.