William G. Wiseman to Colonel House

Cable

London, August 9, 1917.

Mr. Balfour attaches much political importance to the question of a Polish army to form part of the United States forces as the Central Powers are alarmed by the idea of a Polish National Army, formation of which would seriously affect, not only their position in occupied Polish territory, but also, the Poles in the German and Austrian armies.

Mr. Balfour believes the best solution is that a Polish army should form part of the United States forces. We understand the French have sent a message through General to Tardieu asking that he should obtain permission to recruit Poles in America for the French-Polish Army. Polish leaders here in close touch with Paderewski consider this highly undesirable. Colonel Count Hardeski (?) one of the chielf Polish leaders will leave here for New York in about a week. I think it would be well to await his arrival before adopting the French scheme.

From secret information reaching H. M. Government, morale of the French armies and provinces is in weak state, although somewhat improved by the arrival of General Pershing and American division. The French are about at the end of their man power, and something should be done to strengthen their capacity for endurance during coming winter. Would it be possible to allow American citizens, outside of draft law, to enlist in the French Army and would any considerable number be available?

Naturally the request must come from the French themselves, though if the President is prepared to consider the principle favorably, a medium of assistance might be given. We could give the French a hint to lay their position frankly before him and ask his assistance. They are, of course, reluctant to expose even to us their real position.

William Wiseman.