4. Your decision as to the War Department's proposal out-
lined in paragraph 2 above (explained in more detail in the attached 
paper), is necessary to the prompt development of our military re-
sources. Your approval could be given with the understanding that 
the present allocations under Lease-Loan will stand until the strate-
gical situation or increased production rates make a new decision 
advisable. The matter of l05mm howitzers will be discussed with the 
British Chiefs of Staff as a separate proposition. Indications are 
that the British will be agreeable to the diversion of these howitzers.
 
 
                    /s/ Henry L. Stimson
                    Secretary of War.
 
1 Enclosure.