Colonel House to Woodrow Wilson

After thinking the matter over I find myself not altogether trusting Lloyd George's plan which Reading is to present to you. The English naturally want the road to Egypt and India blocked, and Lloyd George is not above using us to further this plan. He is not of the Grey-Balfour type and in dealing with him it is well to bear this in mind.

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The Premier of New South Wales called today. He is anxious that you make an exception of the fourteen small ships (3500 tons each) that are being built in this country. He says Australia would consider it a mark of great friendship.

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I had a talk with Roland Morris today. I hope you will see him for ten or fifteen minutes before he leaves for Japan next Tuesday, in order to give him your viewpoint as to Far Eastern questions. I think he has the right view himself and, if you agree with it, he will understand in what direction to proceed.

We cannot meet Japan in her desires as to land and immigration, and unless we make some concessions in regard to her sphere of influence in the East, trouble is sure, sooner or later to come. Japan is barred from all the undeveloped places of the earth, and if her influence in the East is not recognized as in some degree superior to that of the Western powers, there will be a reckoning.

A policy can be formulated which will leave the open door, rehabilitate China, and satisfy Japan. Morris sees this clearly but needs your sanction, if, indeed, such a policy has your sanction.

Affectionately yours,
EM House
115 East 53rd Street,
New York.