121.840 Welles, Sumner/32: Telegram
The Chargé in Germany (Kirk) to the Secretary of State
[Received 5:26 p.m.]
388. For the Secretary and Under Secretary. My 363, February 11, noon.11 Although the official reserve on the matter of the visit to Europe of the Under Secretary still continues there is reason to believe from information received up to the present that his impending arrival in Berlin has aroused the greatest interest in the highest governmental circles here and it is said that particularly close contact with Rome is being maintained in regard to the significance and possible consequences of his mission. I have received no indication from authoritative sources as to the reception which may be contemplated but I have received an indirect intimation to the effect that there is the present intention that he be received by the highest authorities. There is furthermore the definite impression that if the Under Secretary proceeds directly from Rome to Berlin and concludes his journey in Europe by visits to England and France the purpose of his visit will be colored in the minds of the German authorities.
In the absence of instructions I have made no representations or inquiries at the German Foreign Office in regard to the visit. I have merely communicated to State Secretary Weizsäcker in a personal [Page 9] and informal letter the substance of the Department’s circular telegram February 9, 4 p.m., and have received a courteous acknowledgment thereof.
- Not printed.↩