of decentralization which constitutes a necessary phase of the national defense. It is clear   
however that the local garrison, necessary for the protection and security of the civilian   
population, must remain in the City.
 
     
 
 
His Eminence has directed me to make known the sad and dangerous situation in which the   
Holy See now finds itself.  In fact, on several occasions and from various sources, including some   
newspapers, the HolySee has already been reproached for harboring within the walls of the Vatican   
the representatives of the United States and of other pouers hostile to the Axis.
 
     
 
 
In the event of a bombardment of Rome there would be considerable probability of an incited   
or spontaneous uprising of the people, and it would be difficult if not impossible for the Holy   
See to guarantee the security of the Vatican itself and of the Allied diplomatic personnel.   
Wheresoever the responsibility of such violence might lie, it will readily be conceded that the   
Holy See does not dispose of adequate means for preventing it.
 
     
 
 
His Eminence has taken full cognizance of the possibility that Vatican City State itself   
may be bombed, either accidentally or deliberately, by one or other of the contending forces. He   
is obliged however to reassert that in the calm judgment of posterity the full responsibility   
would fall on the Allies if they give occasion for such a tragic disaster by bombing any part of   
the City of Rome.
 
     
 
 
I shall be most grateful if Your Excellency will present the contents of this Note to your   
Government, and I foster hope that due consideration will be given to the precarious situation   
that would result for the Holy See if Rome is made the objective of aerial raids.
 
     
 
 
With the assurances of my highest consideration and of my deep personal regards, I beg to   
remain
 
Yours very sincerely,
 
A.G. Cicognani
 
Archbishop of Laodicea
 
Apostolic Delegate