862t.01/49: Telegram
The Commissioner at Berlin (Dresel) to the Secretary of State
[Received April 8—9:20 a.m.]
285. In conversation with Under Secretary of State Haniel he emphasized that in the interest of Europe Germany was forced to be the judge as to when it was necessary for her to take active measures to suppress disorders as was the case in dealing with Ruhr situation. He further stated that if Germany violated treaty it was clearly a matter for the League of Nations and that Germany’s note of protest (see my 279 of today27) has been sent this morning to the League of Nations as well as to the Allied Governments.
Haniel stated that the German Government had today requested a prolongation of the agreement of August 9 [8] regarding the maintenance of troops in neutral zone which otherwise expires on 10th instant. He added that troops in Ruhr in excess of number allowed by this agreement would be withdrawn by the end of week and no occupation south of the Ruhr would be attempted.
French action has caused less popular excitement in Berlin than might have been feared. It will, however, render more difficult than ever the reestablishment of tolerable relations between France and Germany and add a heavy burden to harassed Muller government, which has just received a new set of demands from the trade union. My 28128 of today gives attitude of the leading party organs on the present situation.
2. Greatly appreciate Department’s telegram number 98 of April 5, 5 p.m., giving the Government’s position which is a most helpful guide. The four principles controlling Department’s attitude entirely coincide with my own convictions.