SECRET
 
25 July, 1941
For the President only:
 
     When I was in Canada the Government officials stated they hoped
 
that you could go to Ottawa on the seventh of August. I wanted to
 
pbone you from Gander but there were no communications there. I am
 
going to remain here a day or two longer for conference with Comm-
 
ander Middle East. His visit here very secret. I am wondering
 
whether you would think it important and useful for me to go to
 
Moscow. Air transportation good and can reach there in twenty four 
 
hours. I have a feeling that everything possible should be done to
 
make certain the Russians maintain a permanent front even though
 
they be defeated in this immediate battle. If Stalin could in any
 
way be influenced at a critical time I think it would be worth doing
 
by a direct communication from you through a personal envoy. I think
 
the stakes even so great that it should be done. Stalin would then
 
supply job. I of course have ride no moves in regard to this and
 
will await your advice. If you think Moscow trip inadvisable I
 
will leave here not later than Wednesday. Am spending weekend with
 
Prime Minister but message through Navy will reach me quickly. There
 
is no news here about Russia or Japan that you do not already have.
 
Prime Minister does not believe Japan wants war Russian ambassador
 
told me this morning he did not believe Japan would attack Russia 
 
immediately. Long conference last night with military chiefs and our 
 
military representatives on the strategic position of the British in 
 
the middle east. They are determined to fight, it out in that sector