Letter from Patrick McGilligan to Benito Mussolini (Rome)
(Copy)

Dear Signor Mussolini,

Since my return from holidays a short time ago I have had an opportunity of meeting Commendatore Piero Toni, who is at present representing Italy in Dublin. I should like you to know that the Irish Government appreciate the appointment of a diplomat to this post, which was formerly occupied by a Consul-General.

My Government hope that the step will eventually lead to the establishment of still closer relations between our two countries, which have always had so close a community of ideals and aspirations. Our financial position does not at present allow us to make proposals for the establishment of a legation at Rome, but my Government hope that our present difficulty will not retard the development, by every available means, of closer relations between us.