EUR files, lot 59 D 233, “Letters—France, July–Dec. 1954”
No. 683
The Ambassador in France (Dillon) to the
Assistant Secretary of State for European Affairs (Merchant)
official–informal
Dear Livie: Embassy’s telegram number 22581 reported, among other things, that de Gaulle expressed an interest to Bill Gibson, through one of the members of his personal staff, in resuming personal contact with the American Ambassador in Paris.
I do not know the full details of what led to the rupture of personal relations between the Embassy and General de Gaulle in 1947 or 1948. Whatever the circumstances at that time, I feel that there is nothing to be gained by continuing to maintain a standoffish attitude. General de Gaulle’s situation has considerably changed, as he is no longer a leader of an active political party, and I think it would be worthwhile for me to see him.
In view of the past history in this affair, I thought it best, however, to get your concurrence before proceeding to make the necessary arrangements. My idea would be to see him sometime in January after the ratification of the Paris accords and depending, of course, upon circumstances at the time. However, I would like to respond to the feeler by his staff as promptly as possible by having Gibson inform Claude Guy that I would like very much to see the General, and will expect to be in touch with him sometime after my return from the United States.
I would very much appreciate your views.
Best wishes,
As ever,
- See footnote 5, supra.↩