May 3, 1919

If Aldovrandi, the secretary of Orlando, is to be believed, and I have always found him hitherto reliable, my previous entries with regard to this delicate subject are incomplete and certainly do less than justice to Lloyd George. He apparently did make an attempt to straighten things out, or at least smooth them over, to prevent the open “break” which is now apparent to all. In these words, Aldovrandi describes the interview between Lloyd George and Orlando which he says took place on the afternoon of April 24.

“I ought to know what was said,” he asserts, “as I acted as their interpreter.”

Apparently, Lloyd George insisted upon the meeting which Orlando wished to avoid, and when he appeared at the Hotel Edouard VII he (George) was nervous and quite pale. “I am taking this unusual step,” he began, “because I wish to call your attention to the fact that the situation with which we are confronted is grave, very grave. It is not only critical for Italy, it is critical for all of us. All Europe needs America. Without America Europe cannot continue to live. I have come to tell you that Wilson, as always obstinate, is greatly irritated now. In this unfortunate state of mind he has drawn up a manifesto to the people of Italy which is really addressed to the people of the world, and he has requested M. Clemenceau and myself to sign it or in some way signify our approval. We have begged him to delay publication for at least forty-eight hours, and that is the reason why I am here. I hope to make its publication, which cannot fail to have unpleasant consequences for all of us, unnecessary. Cannot we smooth things over? I do not have to tell you the scandal that will follow upon its publication or how the Germans and our other enemies will rejoice. The unhappy division that exists in the council of the Allies will then be apparent to all the world. Let us see if we cannot stave off this catastrophe.”

A few minutes after these words were spoken, Lloyd George left and while the Italian delegation was deliberating as to how the situation was to be met, one of the secretaries came in with a copy of the Temps of that evening. In it the manifesto of Wilson was published and Orlando said: “There is nothing left for us to do but to pack up and leave for Rome.”

So, Aldovrandi.