of the President and to official exchanges of calls and interviews with
the delegates of other countries who were gathering for the Peace
Conference. On the 23d, when the pressure of formal and social
engagements had in a measure lessened, I decided to present to the
President my views as to the mutual guaranty which he intended to
propose, fearing that, if there were further delay, he would become
absolutely committed to the affirmative form. I, therefore, on that day
sent him the following letter, which was marked "Secret and Urgent":

"_Hotel de Crillon December 23, 1918_

"MY DEAR MR. PRESIDENT:

"The plan of guaranty proposed for the League of Nations, which has
been the subject of discussion, will find considerable objection from
other Governments because, even when the principle is agreed to,
there will be a wide divergence of views as to the terms of the
obligation. This difference of opinion will be seized upon by those,
who are openly or secretly opposed to the League, to create
controversy and discord.

"In addition to this there will be opposition in Congress to assuming
obligations to take affirmative action along either military or
economic lines. On constitutional grounds, on its effect on the
Monroe Doctrine, on jealousy as to Congressional powers, etc., there
will be severe criticism which will materially weaken our position
with other nations, and may, in view of senatorial hostility, defeat
a treaty as to the League of Nations or at least render it impotent.

"With these thoughts in mind and with an opposition known to exist