Debt Missions

Behind the political scenes at Paris a fierce controversy was waged over the composition of the French debt mission to the U. S. which is to sail in September. M. Franklin-Bouillon, Chairman of the Chamber of Deputies' Foreign Relations Committee, a famed and able diplomat, was most eager to head the delegation. He was supported by Premier Painleve and by many other good friends, who pointed out that his marvelous English vocabulary and diction, equaling his French eloquence, made him preeminently suitable. Stolid, squat Aristide Briand, Foreign Minister, agreed; but he did not and would not agree to the people M. Franklin-Bouillon wished to take along with him.

Three attaches of the French Treasury--MM. Barnaud, Roussel and Thion de la Chaume--left Paris to represent France in discussions at London of the French War debt to Britain. The commission of three was expected to function at once. Finance Minister Caillaux expected to be in London as soon as he could tear himself away from preparing next year's budget.