793.94 Conference/152: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Chairman of the American Delegation (Davis)
30. Your 8, November 1, 1 p.m. The Department finds itself in general concurrence with the views you express in regard to the resolution proposed in our 14, October 30, 4 p.m. The draft resolution was suggestive and was put forward without intention of stipulating exact form or time of possible use.
With regard to the fears you express that premature suggestion of the procedure mentioned in the resolution might be construed as an indication of a defeatist attitude et cetera, the Department appreciates the point you mention and it was with that point in mind that the Department made the statement in its telegram under reference to the effect that possible recess of the conference would be for a period not to exceed 1 month and would be subject to prior convocation by [Page 144] the Chairman at the request of any one of the signatories. The Department’s understanding is that the conference would actually remain in being subject to convocation at any time.
The Department shares your doubts whether it would have much, if any, effect to pass any resolution on the subject of the origin of the conference but notes that the Department’s suggestion under reference will continue to have your consideration.
With reference to the five points as to procedure which you outline, it is the feeling and desire of the Department that procedural matters should be left in your hands for decision, in collaboration with the other delegates, in accordance with your judgment and information available on the spot. The Department does not wish to take the initiative in or endeavor to direct you in such matters.