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find ourselves engaged in a war which we could not win
even though the United States would be in no danger of
defeat and occupation.
 
     "It is apparent that the United States should, now
and in the future, exert its utmost efforts and utilize 
all its influence to prevent such a situation arising and 
to promote a spirit of mutual cooperation between Britain, 
Russia and ourselves. So long as Britain and Russia
cooperate and collaborate in the interests of peace, there 
can be no great war in the foreseeable future.
 
     "The greatest likelihood of eventual conflict between 
Britain and Russia would seem to grow out of either nation 
initiating attempts to build up its strength, by seeking 
to attach to herself parts of Europe to the disadvantage 
and possible danger of her potential adversary. Having 
regard to the inherent suspicions of the Russians, to pre-
sent Russia with any agreement on such matters as between 
the British and ourselves, prior to consultation with 
Russia, might well result in starting a train of events
that would lead eventually in the situation we most wish 
to avoid."