August, 1 1939 My dear Mr. President: Some weeks ago the Secretary and I were speaking of the advantage which might be gained by this Government if we had direct dilplomatic relations with the Vatican. I think it is unquestionable that the Vatican has many sources of information, particularly with regard to what is actually going on in Germany, Italy, and Spain, which we do not possess, and it seemed to us that the question of whether it would be desirable for our Government to obtain access to this information was of considerable importance. AT Mr. Hull's suggestion I wrote a personal letter to Bill Phillips asking his opinion. I have this morning recieved Bill's reply under date of July 19 and I am sending you a copy of his letter for your information. Believe me Faithfully yours {Sumner Wells} Enclosure: From Ambassador Phlllips, July 19, 1939. The President, The White House. |