appeared to me serene and in good health but, of course, anxious with regard   
to the turn Military developments may take in connection with Rome. He said   
he hoped that the Allied troops might find it possible to circumvent Rome   
and thus oblige the Germans to retire without subjecting the city to havoc  
due to combat. I reminded him that the President had said that the Germans   
alone would be responsible for any destruction wrought in Rome. The Pope did   
not bring up the subject of 'Open City'.
 
     
 
 
"2. The Pope also seemed preoccupied that, in the absence of sufficient   
police protection, irresponsible elements (he said it is known that little   
Communist bands are stationed in the environs of Rome at the present time)   
might commit violence in the City during the period between the German   
evacuation and arrival of the Allies. He also expresses apprehension regarding   
the food situation. He hoped that these two points would be given consideration   
by the Allies and necessary measures teken by them in time. The Pope said   
that so far the Germans had respected the Vatican City and the Holy See's   
property in Rome and that the German General Officer Commanding in Rome   
seemed well-disposed towards the Vatican. He added, however, that he was   
feeling restrictions due to the 'abnormal situation.'
 
    
 
 
"The Pope asked me to convey his greetings to the President and to Mr.   
Myron Taylor."