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      colonial empire and fleet out of the enemy's hands. Because the 
      French cannot themselves safeguard their overseas territories 
      we must continue to support any movement there for self defense 
      against Germany and Italy for collaboration with ourselves.
 
      
 
 
(3) Except to such extent as may be agreed in discussion, 
      His Majesty's Government must maintain the blockade, which is 
      vital to their war effort.
 
      
 
 
{4) His Majesty's Government welcome the French Government's 
      determination to retain control of their empire and fleet and 
      assume that this means that neither will be allowed to fall under 
      enemy influence or into enemy hands. If the French Government 
      can convince us that they can make this purpose effective there 
      should be no fundamental difference between either, since we 
      look forward to the unity of France and her empire when victory 
      has been achieved. We feel pretty sure that victory will be achieved.
 
      
 
 
(5) If France attacked British territory, harbors or warships, 
      His Majesty's Government would immediately retaliate against 
      targets in unoccupied France. Even the seat of the Government 
      would not necessarily be immune.
 
      
 
 
(6) If the above points are clearly understood, His Majesty's 
      Government is willing to begin discussions at once at Madrid. 
      They suggest that the question of trade between North Africa 
      (including the Atlantic ports of French Morocco) and unoccupied 
      France should be first reviewed. They would be glad to examine 
      any concrete French proposals. Ends.
 
      
 
 
3. We are disagreeably impressed though not surprised with 
      the Vichy Government's reply, but as