Messersmith, G.S.
Date
2011-06-15
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Delaware Library, Museums and Press
Abstract
Description
While on leave in spring of 1937 was in New York; received call from secretary of Col. [Edward Mandell] House; House asked that Messersmith come to see him at his apartment the following morning; had never met Col. House; knew of important role he played during Wilson administration, but was unaware that he had any connection with Roosevelt administration; discussed with him every phase of European situation without knowing purpose of conversation; after 1 1/2 hours, House said he had been asked by Roosevelt to talk with Messersmith to determine if he would accept post as Ambassador to Russia; President thought Messersmith might not be interested and didn't want to put him in position of having to say no to him directly; Messersmith told House he appreciated the honor but Russia was the one place he would not go; he knew Mrs. Messersmith's feelings on the subject; she had cheerfully and willingly accepted every post to which he had been assigned including many hardships, but he could not ask her to go to Russia and he would not go alone.
Keywords
Messersmith, George S. (George Strausser), 1883-1960.