500.A15 a 1/394: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Chairman of the American Delegation (Gibson)
33. Your 68 and 69, together with my reply No. 30, were telegraphed to the President yesterday. This morning the following telegram was received from him:
“Tell Gibson what is needed is not excuse or soft words but clear strong statement of American position. Let blame fall where it may. Your plan approved.”
Do not construe this to mean that you should not give expression to sentiments of friendly attitude and good feeling but our position should be made perfectly plain when necessity arises. You are at liberty to use your discretion in using any suggestions contained in my telegram No. 30, July 8, 2 P.M. at plenary session on Monday. Unless you see reason to the contrary and the British Government makes their position clear, think you should do the same.