Letter from Patrick McGilligan to William T. Cosgrave (Dublin)
(Copy)

Dear President,

Blythe called in to see me last Saturday re the signing of the Kellogg Anti-War Pact but as I was out failed to see me. He phoned me on Sunday to give me his views and after speaking to him I tried to get you by phone. Unfortunately you had gone to Kildare and between the hour at which it was estimated you would return and a somewhat early hour on Monday morning I was out in the country and unable to secure telephone facilities. I had a fearful rush to get the train on Monday morning and since my arrival here this is the first opportunity I have been able to get for letter writing.

Blythe informed me of what the American Minister in Dublin told him and I am completely in agreement that under the circumstances you should make the journey to Paris and affix signature on our behalf to the Pact. The publicity which we will thereby secure will undoubtedly be of immense benefit and your presence in Paris will enhance the good repute we already enjoy with Americans by reason of our unreserved and prompt reply to the Kellogg invitation. So I would urge on you that it is essential for you to go. If as seems almost assured, the Secretary of State returns to Dublin with you we are shown to the world as specially associated with the Pact and as specially favoured by America. Your association with Kellogg will put the crown on the good work already accomplished by your American trip. It is an opportunity not to be missed.

If you decide to go, as I sincerely trust you will, it will be necessary to apprise Mr Murphy, Asst. Secretary, Dept. of Ex.Affairs, of this as soon as possible. The 'Full Powers' required have already by Despatch been requested for me and it will be a good thing to have the issue in your name instead of to me demanded at once.¹ Murphy will see about this if told of the change. In addition I presume that arrangements will have to be made with Finance as to your expenses when away. Again Murphy will see to it if you give him an interview at which to discuss details.

You will, in addition, need to decide on the names of those whom you would wish to accompany you. I had at first decided to ask Seán Murphy to come over with me, but in the end I did not press any request upon him as he is occupied with work owing to Lester being on leave, and engaged in making preparations for the League of Nations Delegation. Dempsey and MacWhite were to be in Paris but you may decide that Murphy also should be there about the time of signing. Again, if you so decide, let Murphy know and he will make the arrangements about himself.

Lastly, I had notified the British of our proposals re MacWhite and had said, I think, that I would take the opportunity of Chamberlain's visit to Paris for the signature to have him, Briand and MacWhite all meet. You will, I presume, do the necessary for me. Once more if you consult Murphy he will inform you of what was intended and will arrange for a fresh notification.

Anyway be sure to go - it is a golden opportunity.