Colonel House to Woodrow Wilson

Title

Colonel House to Woodrow Wilson

Creator

House, Edward Mandell, 1858-1938

Identifier

WWP21149

Date

1917 April 8

Source

Library of Congress, Woodrow Wilson Papers, 1786-1957

Language

English

Text

Dear Governor

Wiseman who has just returned from Washington tells me in confidence that he saw a cable from Balfour saying that the British Cabinet unanimously agreed that it would be wise for him to come to America immediately. The cable also said that he, Balfour, had received an intimation that you approved his coming. Just where he got this word, Wiseman did not know.Wiseman also said that he read a cable in which they wanted to know whether or not it would not be a good time to begin a vigorous propoganda here. At Spring)Rice's suggestion, Wiseman answered this last cable himself and told them it would be a mistake to do anything of the kind.
In discussing the situation with him [Wiseman] we agreed that if Balfour was discouraged about coming it would have a bad effect, not only with the Government, but throughout the Empire generally. We thought it would have been better if the suggestion had not come so soon, but having come, it would be well to cordially acquiesce.
We thought it inadvisable to have a visit at this time from any prominent British or French military or naval men. Those that come should do so quietly and be of minor reputation so that their coming would not be heralded. Balfour's visit, we thought, could be interpreted as having to do with trade, blockade and other matters connected with the Foreign Office.
I am afraid it will give offense unless I am able to answer Balfour's cable by tomorrow or next day.
-------------------I
am glad to tell you that the general impression as to what is being done in both the Army and Navy is one of satisfaction.

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

Original Format

Letter

To

Wilson, Woodrow, 1856-1924

Files

http://resources.presidentwilson.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/WWI0142.pdf

Collection

Citation

House, Edward Mandell, 1858-1938, “Colonel House to Woodrow Wilson,” 1917 April 8, WWP21149, World War I Letters, Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library & Museum, Staunton, Virginia.