That I could not do because there was sufficient truth in it to compel me to show how, by slight variations and by omissions in the conversation, my words were misunderstood or misinterpreted.
In view of the fact that I found it impossible to make an absolute denial, I telegraphed the President stating the facts and offering to make them public if he considered it wise to do so.

The important part of the telegram, which was dated September 16, 1919, is as follows: "On May 17th Bullitt resigned by letter giving his reasons, with which you are familiar.

I replied by letter on the 18th without any comment on his reasons.

Bullitt on the 19th asked to see me to say good-bye and I saw him.

He elaborated on the reasons for his resignation and said that he could not conscientiously give countenance to a treaty which was based on injustice.