Cauwelaert, Frans Van, Antwerp. To G.S. Messersmith, Washington., 1939 October 21

In French. Was pleased to hear of important work Messersmith has been doing and to receive photograph of home; Europe on verge of great catastrophe; the occupation of Austria, destruction of Czechoslovakia, and even attack on Poland all foreseeable; received by President Roosevelt in 1933 and told him then that the old allies by their political incoherence and lack of foresight, were preparing alliance of Germany, Italy, and Japan; with Russia added, alliance becomes more dangerous; rapid victory by England and France militarily impossible, a long war full of dangers moral and social; temporarily not much to be done; abcess must come to head; in meantime diplomatic conversations continue; Belgium must remain neutral unless Holland is attacked, but her sympathies are with Western allies; Belgian economic situation not good and English blockade has hurt trade; gives news of family; wife joins in sending affectionate greetings to Messersmith and Mrs. Messersmith.