763.72119/3082
The Italian Ambassador ( Macchi di Cellere ) to the Assistant Secretary of State ( Phillips )
My Dear Mr. Phillips: By a recent note the Minister of Switzerland to Italy expressed to the Royal Government the desire of the Swiss Government that all the representatives of the Swiss Confederation be admitted to take part in the works of the Peace Conference, or at [Page 280] least that they attend those sessions in which questions interesting Switzerland both in a general way and in particular, will be discussed.
Baron Sonnino has answered informing that the Italian Government hasn’t so far taken any decision upon what concerns the procedure regarding the Peace Conference, and that inasmuch as questions of a general nature interesting not the belligerents alone, are concerned, he thought it necessary to proceed in accordance with all the Governments interested.
While communicating to me what precedes, Baron Sonnino adds that he would much appreciate knowing what the opinion of the American Government is on this point. And I would therefore be much obliged to you for putting me in a position to give an answer to my Government on the subject.
I thank you in advance, and beg to remain,
Yours very sincerely