Colonel House to Woodrow Wilson

Enclosed are some cables from Sir William. Balfour is evidently very much concerned regarding the Pope's appeal and I hope you will feel that you can give him your private opinion as he requests.

The cable relating to Spring-Rice and Northcliffe tells of a situation which we already know. I agree with Sir William that Sir Cecil should be asked home for conference and then kept until Northcliffe leaves. It is impossible for the two of them to work in harmony. The British Government cannot do as they please with Northcliffe, therefore, Sir Cecil must be the one to be momentarily eliminated.Northcliffe, who has been here for several days, continues to show a disposition to be useful and as agreeable as possible. He shows me all his confidential cables and is amenable to advice. I am surprised at his attitude and hope it will continue.

Northcliffe also suggests that Lloyd-George visit America. I discouraged it by telling him that he should be reserved for an occasion when he would be very much needed. Will you not also advise me concerning your wishes in regard to such a visit.