The French in Martinique The United States Government has consistently
attempted to avoid an open breach with Vichy, and till recently has not thought it necessary to take measures to deal with the danger latent in the French colony of Martinique and the French warships which are sheltering there. But the domination of Vichy policy by the arch-traitor and tpol of Germany, Laval, created a new situation. Hence the visit to Martinique of Admiral Hoover, commander of the Caribbean Sea Fleet, who has engaged in negotiations with Admiral Robert, the French High Commissioner, in regard to a problem which it is sought to localise. The American Government is not discussing the question formally with the Vichy Government— that is to say, with Laval. It has instead sent one Admiral to talk the matter over with another Admiral, the American representative being instructed to promise that the French flag will continue to fly in Martinique, Guadaloupe and French Guiana, and that Admiral Robert will continue to be the governing authority in the French Caribbean possessions, provided guarantees are given for the demobilising of the French ships and certain other measures necessary for Allied security. Vichy's record in Syria and Indo- China showed the danger of leaving Martinique in a position to stab the Allies in the back at some moment that might seem opportune, and perhaps to release the warships for enemy use. It is now open to Vichy to overlook the unusual diplomatic procedure, and let Admiral Robert make a " local " agreement, or to invite the open breach which could scarcely fail to follow if America were obliged to seize Martinique as we have seized Madagascar. There will be no hesitation about that if the need arises.
