Paris Peace Conf. 184.1 Polk, Frank L.: Telegram
The Commission to Negotiate Peace to the Acting Secretary of State
2894. [From Lansing.] Your 2709 [2381?] of June 23. The President considers that it is advisable that I return to Washington as soon as machinery can be started to complete work here, which I believe can be done in a few days.
I am, therefore, planning to leave on July 10th or soon after that date. You may of course reserve final decision as to taking my place until I arrive in America. I would however earnestly advise your coming in that capacity as I am sure that you would find the change of work a very great relief. I realize the difficulties which you mention but hope that they may be overcome.
My opinion is that someone fully representative of the Administration should continue my work here, which now that the German treaty is out of the way and the Austrian treaty about completed, ought not to be arduous.
In the event that you are able to come I wish you would consider the possibility of bringing Woolsey61 with you. If the Solicitor’s office can be left by him in the hands of a competent head, I am sure that he ought to come with you, not only on your own account but because he will be greatly needed in arranging for the post-war work of the Department, a branch of the work with which you should not be burdened if you can arrange to come. If you think it wise you may confidentially sound Woolsey as to this plan. He would work well with Dr. Scott and Foster Dulles who will remain here.
I hope that in the event that my suggestion appeals to you you will plan to leave within a few days after my arrival in America as there should be as little hiatus as possible in the Commission’s head since the work will be hampered during that period. Lansing.
- Lester H. Woolsey, Solicitor for the Department of State.↩