-2-
 
      
 
 
exercising its powerful attractive influence 
      and we are hoping both to reinforce 
 
      our army from the South and to harry if not cut hostile communication 
      across the 
 
      Mediterranean. In this theatre we shall I think come through.
 
      
 
 
5. But how small is this compared to the Battle 
      of the Atlantic which action you 
 
      have just taken may well decide in a favourable sense.
 
      
 
 
6. We are of course observing strictest secrecy. 
      You will, I am sure, however, 
 
      realise that if it were possible for you to make any kind of 
      disclosure or 
 
      declaration on these lines it might powerfully influence the 
      attitude both of 
 
      Turkey and Spain at a cardinal moment.