The President                        
 
                           July 5, 1943                     
 
                                                            
 
 
I called on Maisky last week before his departure for Moscow. 
      The subject of the Stalin-Churchill cables came up. The interchange 
      had not disturbed him. He said, laughing "You know that 
      Stalin speaks his mind bluntly." He also indicated no concern 
      over the possibility of our increased military influence in the 
                             Balkans.                       
 
                                                            
 
 
As you know, I am a confirmed optimist in our relations with 
      Russia because of my conviction that Stalin wants, if obtainable, 
      a firm understanding with you and America more than anything 
      else - after the destruction of Hitler. He sees Russia's reconstruction 
      and security more soundly based on it than on any alternative. 
      He is a man of simple purposes and, although he may use devious 
      means in attempting to accomplish them, he does not deviate from 
                     his long run objectives.               
 
                                                            
 
 
The situation is today in the making and we have much at stake. 
      If you don't get a follow up on the Davies letter, you may want 
      to consider sending me to Moscow soon (assuming that you think 
      I am the man to go}.