This telegram must be closely paraphrased before being communicated to
anyone. (SC)
 
London
 
Dated December 19, 1941
 
Rec'd. 10:45 p.m.
 
Secretary of State Washington.
 
TRIPLE PRI0RITY.
 
6147, December 19, 11 p.m. (SECTION THREE)
 
There was some discussion about Turkey, Persia and other matters on
which Eden will report later. Stalin seemed reasonably satisfied with
the position in these countries.
 
As regards the Far East, Stalin said he was
 
sorry that in the present circumstances he was not
 
now in a position to help us there.
 
          Eden accepted a suggestion by Stalin that the British
military mission should come to Moscow where contact could more easily
kept with the Russian commanders.
 
Eden reported that the conversation throughout
 
was most cordial and was to be resumed the next day. The contents of
the treaties in their final form would generally accord with the basis
approved by the Cabinet. The Russians attach importance to the term
"treaty" and Eden thinks it essential that his visit should be marked
by some aggreement which will convince the Russians of the sincerity of
our collaboration both now and in the future.
 
(End Summary)