765.84/141
The Chargé in Italy (Kirk) to the Secretary of State
[Received January 30.]
Sir:
. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
In conclusion, I have the honor to report that there are indications that the British Ambassador here has been very active in endeavoring to effect a compromise between the Italian and Abyssinian points of view. In British circles here it is felt that despite the Abyssinian request for a discussion of the Walwal incident during the present session of the League of Nations Council, a settlement of the question will be reached before such discussion takes place. It appears that of the three demands made by the Italians (namely, that an apology on the part of Abyssinia be published in an official communiqué, that a cash indemnity be deposited in a bank in Eritrea to be distributed among the sufferers of the December 5th incident, and that the Abyssinians salute the Italian flag), the first two are more or less acceptable to the Abyssinians, so that at the moment the efforts of the British are being directed toward a settlement of the last question.
Respectfully yours,