Personal code telegram from Robert Brennan to Joseph P. Walshe (Dublin)
(No. 177)

I gave memorandum to Undersecretary yesterday and discussed various points which he said would receive sympathetic consideration.

I again raised question of arms and gave Crete as example.¹

He said he would discuss matter with President again and added 'I think the time has arrived when you and I should get down to brass tacks on the whole question' and suggested there should be a solution which would not be contrary either to our policy or theirs. I saw Board of Maritime Commission today: it was very disappointing.

They said they would have no objection to our operating the two Danish ships at Limerick but that British would insist on purchase funds being frozen. I replied that any attempt to involve us with either belligerent would fail and that the President's public offer concerned American ships.

They offered explore situation when they were supplied with technical details of proposed cargoes.

I am asking Vice Consul Brennan² to come down here for these discussions.