factor will be fear of the Germans. Self-preservation undoubt-
edly will be the controlling motive. For planning purposes, 
it must be assumed that both French and natives will adopt the 
line of action which involves the least danger to themselves.
 
     The only plan for the occupation of North Africa which 
is considered feasible is one which contemplates a French 
invitation for a direct occupation of  French Morocco, with a 
reasonable assurance that the troops in Spanish Morocco would 
not cooperate with the Axis powers in opposing our occupation 
of French Morocco. This plan, now being studied, is the only 
one within the joint capabilities of the United States and the 
British in the near future.
 
                              /s/ G.C. Marshall
                              Chief of Staff
 
1 encl.
     proposed opera. In N. Africa
 
 
 
                              -2-