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been Hitler's intention to publish the letter. He was
told that Hitler had made the decision himself, while
yon Ribbentrop was in Paris, and that the only reason
for such an amazing decision which the German Embassy
here could figure out was "a sentimental one" of gratitude
felt by Hitler for the great assistance rendered him by
Mussolini in the past. They assumed that Mussolini had
asked that the letter be published and that Hitler had felt
that he could not refuse. They added that it would be a
mistake to underestimate the strength of this "sentimental
feeling" of gratitude which Hitler entertains for Mussolini.
 
 
 I must confess that I am puzzled by this story. It
seems utterly fantastic. Yet the friend who repeated it
to me is someone I have known for many years, who obtains
sound information occasionally, and when he does communicates
it to me; he has never misled me in the information which he
has given me.
 
 
 With all best wishes,
 
 
  Yours sincerely,
 
 
   EDWIN C. WILSON