890E.00/216: Telegram
The Minister in Egypt (Kirk) to the Secretary of State
[Received 10:14 p.m.]
2096. My 2066, November 13, 3 p.m. Casey upon his return from Beirut informs me that he considers the situation extremely serious in the Lebanon and is advocating the use of British troops in case of emergency and a notification to the French that Wednesday is the time limit for compliance with British demands, especially the stipulation as to the release of the members of Lebanese Government. He had a conference with Catroux this morning who rehearsed at length the French thesis and complaints including alleged British political machination in the Levant States. As Catroux gave the impression that he did not consider speed of the essence in dealing with the present crisis and expressed the hope that his hand would not be forced, Casey told him that he considered any delay as not only jeopardizing Anglo-French relations but endangering further the situation in the Lebanon which might gravely deteriorate any moment. Catroux is expected to leave for Beirut this afternoon or tomorrow morning.
Repeated to Beirut and Algiers.