59
740.00/40-1/2
The Minister in Switzerland
(Wilson) to the Secretary of State
[Extract]
BERN, November 13, 1935.
DEAR MR. SECRETARY:
I have reported before, and the impression
grows deeper as the days go by, that although Germany is not present at Geneva,
none the less it is the concern regarding Germany which is decisively
influencing the action of all the European member States today. The States of
Europe, while fully realizing and apprehensive of the dangers inherent in
Italy's present course, have no real fear of Italy; they
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are however profoundly afraid of Germany. Hence in their concerted action
in the development of the collective idea on the Continent, in the application
of sanctions and in their consideration of future eventualities, they are
dominated by two thoughts: what will be the effect of such action on Germany
and how will analogous action work against Germany when and if necessity calls
for it? More than for a solution of the present problem, the setting into
operation of the League machine seems to me a trial and test of strength for
future possibilities. If I may so phrase it, we are attending a dress rehearsal
in which the elements of the piece are carefully inspected for future
production, and in which one of the most important props, the British navy in
the Mediterranean, is also visible and under scrutiny.
Those who now believe that economic sanctions
against Italy will be efficacious also believe, and rejoice thereat, that the
machinery of Article 16 of the Covenant has been tried and not found wanting.
They do not doubt that this action, if successful, will impress Hitler and that
he will come to understand that while the States of Europe are reluctant to
intervene in the internal affairs of any country, they will tolerate the
existence of a dictator only while he keeps within his own boundaries and
refrains from attempts to bully his neighbor. Thus, they contend, at the end of
the Italian trouble Hitler should be in a frame of mind to negotiate Germany's
international problems and negotiate them reasonably.
Respectfully yours,
HUGH R. WILSON