Messersmith, G.S., Vienna. To R[obert] Walton Moore, Washington.
Date
1936-12-05
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Delaware Library, Museums and Press
Abstract
Description
Slipping action of Austria toward Germany arrested by strong attitude of Chancellor and clearer stronger attitude taken by Italy; [Franz] von Papen gave big reception Dec. 3, to which most members of the Government were invited; Chancellor was absent and attended concert instead, a nice way of showing he disapproved of von Papen's activities; beginning of Austro-German trade negotiations postponed to Dec. 9; because of recent visit of [Nicolas] Horthy and other developments Vienna press did not give much space to President's [Roosevelt's] trip to Buenos Aires, but his speeches in Rio and in Buenos Aires were given full publicity; believes his speeches and statements of Secretary [Hull] in Rio will exert great influence and came as relief to peoples who have not lost faith in democracies; left copies of Buenos Aires speech at Foreign Office and gave copies to press; in reply to Moore's request for opinion as to whether there will be large-scale war with year or two, believes war may yet be averted if concerted action is taken by England and France and cooperation of Italy can be secured; nobody wants war, not Russia, not Italy and not even Germany if she can gain her ends without it by only a show of force; Germany is the only real threat to peace; objectives of present regime have not and will not change, and unless her economy collapses completely beforehand, she will eventually move to accomplish her territorial aims, by force if necessary, and other countries bound to resist; U.S. may become involved regardless of wishes; advertisement of isolationist or neutral attitude by U.S. will only encourage dictators and discourage other democracies.
Keywords
Messersmith, George S. (George Strausser), 1883-1960.