124.55/75: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Italy (Phillips)
144. Your 418, May 27, 11 a.m. We are very gratified to hear from Cudahy that he and his staff and their families and the members and families of the Consulate are well. We have taken note of the matters mentioned in the third paragraph.
As regards the contents of the fourth paragraph Department is definitely of the opinion that the work under his jurisdiction now is of the utmost importance and that it merits the attention of the official representatives of the American Government. The President and the Department are alike of the opinion that he continue his residence and his official duties in so far as may be possible under the circumstances that exist.
The Department is of the opinion that he should not serve as chairman of the committee he mentions but that he should cooperate with such a committee and be helpful in choosing the membership of it and in coordinating that committee with the efforts of the Red Cross or any other committee whether it is of American or other origin in bringing relief to the people of Belgium.
He will be advised as to the steps which have been and will be taken by the Red Cross and other organizations in their efforts to effectuate relief.
Department will be glad if you will take advantage of the opportunity to send the substance of the above message to Cudahy.