[Messersmith, G.S.], [Washington]. To Frans Van Cauwelaert, Brussels.
Date
1940-02-07
Authors
Messersmith, George S. (George Strausser), 1883-1960.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Special Collections, University of Delaware Library
Abstract
Description
Appreciates Van Cauwelaert's good wishes; would have replied sooner except for press of work; was called home from Vienna in 1937 to help reorganize State Department, work on plan for consolidation of Foreign Services, and help to push through legislative program; has been largely successful, but it has required long hours of work; is no longer young and effects of overwork showing; looks forward to post in Cuba, where there will be plenty to do, but scope of activities will be more limited; would have enjoyed going as Ambassador to Belgium, and perhaps some time in future it may be possible; people in U.S. much concerned over developments and sympathies overwhelmingly with England and France; desire of U.S. to keep out of war perhaps selfish, but understandable; rumors of peace negotiations; any negotiations fruitless until Hitler regime abolished; realizes Van Cauwelaert's concern for Belgium, but thinks invasion can be expected; invasion of Holland and Belgium always a part of German military plan; glad to hear of Belgium's closer relations with Holland; Van Cauwelaert will like new Ambassador from U.S. to Belgium [John] Cudahy; leaving for Cuba end of February; interested to hear news of family; with wife, has fond recollections of Van Cauwelaert and family.
Keywords
Messersmith, George S. (George Strausser), 1883-1960.