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(5) Joining hands between Germany and Japan and
the probable lees of the Indian Ocean.
(6) The very important probability of German
occupation of Tunis, Algiers, Morocco, Dakar
and the cutting of the ferry route through
Freetown and Liberia.
(7) Serious danger of all shipping in the South
Atlantic and serious danger to Brazil and the
whole of the East Coast of South America. I
include in the above possibilities the use by the
Germans of Spain, Portugal and other
territories.
(8) You will the best methods of holding
the Middle East. These methods include definitely:
(a) Sending aid and ground forces to the
Persian Gulf, to Syria and to Egypt.
(b) A new operation in Morocco and Algiers
intended to drive in against the backdoor
of Rommelle armies. The attitude of French
Colonial troops is still in doubt.
(9) I am opposed to an American all-cut effort
in the Pacific against Japan with the view to her defeat
as quickly as possible unless no plan can be worked out
for British and American unity of action in Europe and
Africa beginning in 1942. It is of the utmost importance
that we appreciate that defeat of Japan does not defeat
Germany and that American concentration against Japan
this year or in 1943 increases the chance of complete
German domination of Europe and Africa. On the other
hand, it is serious that defeat of Germany, or the holding
of Germany in 1942 or in 1943 means probable, eventual
defeat of Germany in the European and African theatres
and in the Near East. Defeat of Germany means the defeat
of Japan, probably without firing a snot or losing a life.
(10) Please remember three cardinal principles --
speed of decision on plane, unity of plans, attack combined
with defense but not defense alone.
(11) I hope for total agreement within one week
of your arrival.