Confidential report from John W. Dulanty to Joseph P. Walshe (Dublin)
(No. 37) (Secret)

Mr. MacDonald told me to-day that both the British Prime Minister and himself were of opinion that it would be extremely helpful to them if he (Mr. MacDonald) could have one or two fairly full conversations with the President.

He would willingly cross over to Ireland where, he says, he is practically unknown but as that might present difficulties to the President he would not suggest that course.

If the President intended to go to Geneva or even to Zurich Mr. MacDonald would be glad to go and stay at some place convenient to either of those towns where it would be possible, he felt sure, for the President and him to meet without the fact of their meeting becoming public. He knew, of course, how essential it was for the meeting to be held in the strictest secrecy.

I told Mr. MacDonald that thus far I had not heard of any intention of the President to visit either of these places, but that I would in accordance with his request place the suggestion before Mr. de Valera.

Any date after the 20th September or possibly even after the 12th would be convenient to Mr. MacDonald.