ADSS 1.25 Valeri, France to Maglione: French confirmation of previous reply

ADSS 1.25 Valerio Valeri, France to Luigi Maglione, Sec State.

Reference: Telegram 114 (AES 2411/39)

Location and date: Paris, 05.05.1939

Summary statement: The French Government confirms its previous reply.

Language: Italian

Text:

Foreign Minister has confirmed reservation relating message. (1)

Although this does not mean a refusal it raises the question of opportunity: Foreign Minister would like Holy See’s authority to remain intact until the moment in which it could be a sheet anchor. (2)

The Minister would like to know, for his own guidance, what reply England and Poland have given.

I insisted regarding Danzig danger.  Foreign Minister then expressed wish to remain in contact to follow development of this affair in case it should really need immediate intervention of Holy Father.

Notes: 

(1) ADSS 1.22

(2) “Sheet anchor” – a dependable person who can be relied upon in an emergency.