[matter omitted]

It is said here this morning that Italy is unlikely to be represented at this afternoon's meeting: that she will allow the other members of the Council to discuss the matter first and to give some indication of their attitude, before coming in on, or being present at, the discussions. Possibly, of course, the Italians are holding off pending some definite decision regarding the proposals from the Fascist Grand Council, and some clarification of the British attitude and of that of the other Council members. There is a general feeling here that the British attitude is very confusing to the situation, as the British Delegation's policy, or rather, attitude, towards the 'peace proposals' appears not to coincide with that of the British Government. There may be some clarification of this position at this evening's meeting. In the meantime, British prestige in Geneva is about as low as it could be.

As to what is likely to happen at this evening's meeting, everybody is in a fog.

[matter omitted]

Later

I enclose copy of the Information Section's communiqué regarding this evening's meeting of the Council. There were only 3 speakers - Mr. Eden, M. Laval and the new Ethiopian representative, who read his statement in a voice so low that nobody could hear it. Mr. Eden's statement gave the impression that the proposals could be regarded as having failed, and M. Laval's was obviously very restrained. Yet several people said to me - notably some of the representatives of the Northern countries and some Americans - that the machine which produced the proposals would still go on, and that whatever Mr. Eden might say, unless he was completely definite, the British Government would remain committed to the proposals.

[matter omitted]

I had a word with Mr. Eden in the lobby, but no discussion on the situation. He looks ill at ease, quite different from M. Laval who is calm as usual.

A feature of the situation is the open condemnation of the British Govt. by the British - even by British League officials here.

[matter omitted]