August 30, 1943.
 
 
 
MEMORANDUM FOR THE SECRETARY OF STATE
 
 
 
I think you should talk this over with General Marshall. Does it need a reply? My first reaction   
is that it is not satisfactory in that it allows a "mere transit line" to go through Rome -- and  
it is of the highest military importance that this transit line be eliminated.
 
 
 
F. D. R.
 
 
 
(In President's handwriting: "telegram explaining Italian plans to make Rome an open city.")