Personal code telegram from Robert Brennan to Joseph P. Walshe (Dublin)
(No. 139)

Under Secretary of State¹ read to me message despatched to Gray yesterday, Monday. Here is summary:-

'Negotiations on food and ships had been proceeding satisfactorily but Frank's arrival had created bad effect because, in conversation with many people including members of the Administration, he had shown that he was animated by spirit of blind hostility to England. However, to show goodwill, Administration was willing to negotiate sale or charter of two ships to convey necessary food, but no arms would be forthcoming until Irish Government showed better spirit of co-operation with those fighting against aggression.'

I denied charge against Frank, and asked did co-operation mean bases. He said no. When pressed, he asked if we had consulted British regarding joint defence. I said I thought not, because that would bring us into war and we were not going in by front door or back.

Please instruct me re (1) negotiations for ships, (2) should Frank cancel his tour to Butte, Seattle, San Francisco and Los Angeles. I am against cancellation.