The President                        
 
                           July 5, 1943                     
 
                                                            
 
 
I have thought a good deal about it since you talked with 
      me and have some definite views as to how the situation might 
      be handled. If you consider sending me, I would respectfully 
      suggest that you recall me to Washington and give me an opportunity 
      to put my ideas before you. You could then decide whether I should 
      go. Real accomplishment by an Ambassador in Moscow is a gamble 
      with the odds against success but the stakes are great both for 
        the war in Europe and in the Pacific - and after.   
 
                                                            
 
 
I would know within a couple of months in Moscow whether I 
      could be of value and would ask that, if I have not been able 
          to do a Job, I could then return or be fired.     
 
                                                            
 
 
I am so keen about the work you have given me in London, which 
      I feel is of increasing value as the time for the offensive approaches, 
      that I would like to go back to it if I cannot do a real job 
      in Moscow. I am sure I can be of more use to you and the war 
      in London than to remain in Moscow as a glorified communications 
                             officer.                       
 
                                                            
 
 
                    Respectfully yours,                     
 
                          The President,                    
 
      The White House.