as the leader and representative of the resistance groups at our High Command. Having given this recognition to General de Gaulle and making the fullest use of him as a symbol of resistance, it could then be stated (as I think you have already done) that General Eisenhower would consult with him as to the selection of individual administrators in the various regions. This consultation would not carry with it his recognition as head of a provisional government. By drawing a clear distinction between the military and political side of his status, I think that we will make the matter clear. My experience at the bridgehead, as well as in England, convinces me that in order to avoid any misconstruction of your viewby the French or British people, it is important that there be some affirmative statement made now; and this is true even though it does reiterate and restate those elemental things that you have said so many times. Such a position would appeal to the ultimate logic of the French people and they are the ones whom I think you would wish to address. |