AF                                      Bombay
This telegram must be
closely paraphrased be-                      Dated May 16, 1942
fore being communicated
to anyone. (SC)                              Rec'd 9:09 a.m.
 
Secretary of State,
 
     Washington.
 
     360, May 16, 11 a.m.
 
     FOR THE PRESIDENT FROM GRADY
 
     "T-21. Beyster a member of our mission and an engineer, believes it practicable to develop
and improve the present all-weather road from Lagos to Khartoum via Kano. Such a project
would operate to safeguard supply lines to the Middle East against enemy action in the Indian
Ocean and to conserve shipping. Deliveries of equipment in Africa and the Middle East could be
made more promptly and in increased volume. Airfield in Central Africa could be supplied more
easily since the improved road would follow air route. Moreover, the railroad from Lagos to
Kano could for that distance supplement the road, although some additional equipment would be
required. Beyster states that this project would not be costly and with adequate equipment could
be completed in less than six months. The mission believes the plan merits a serious consideration
of officials in Washington."
 
 
EDA                                     DONOVAN