London March 7, 1942.
 
      
 
 
Dear Mr. President:
 
      
 
 
I have been worried about the Prime Minister - both his political 
      status and his own spirits. He did not take well the criticism 
      he found on his return from Washington. The criticism was not 
      directed at him personally but against certain policies and against 
      various individuals. Unfortunately he bared his chest and assumed 
      the blame for everything 
 
      and everybody -politicians and soldiers alike. The natural effect 
      of this was to turn the criticism against himself.
 
      
 
 
He was forced, obviously reluctantly, to make changes, thus 
      failing o get full credit. He has, however, quieted things for 
      the present. His opponents have found that he has an Achilles 
      Heel and will undoubtedly attack again. It is curious how, when 
      criticism starts, a 
 
      coalition government suffers from lack of party loyalty and support.
 
      
 
 
Although the British are keeping a stiff upper lip, the surrender 
      of their troops at Singapore has shattered confidence to she 
      core - even in themselves but more particularly in their leaders. 
      They don't intend to take it lying down and I am satisfied we 
      will see the rebirth of greater determination. At the moment, 
      however, they can't see the end to defeats.
 
      
 
 
Unfortunately Singapore shook the Prime Minister himself to 
      such an extent that he has not been able to stand up in this 
      adversity with his old vigor.
 
      
 
 
A number of astute people, both friends and opponents, feel 
      it is only a question of a few months before his Government falls. 
      I cannot accept this view. He has been very tired but is better 
      in the last day or two. I believe he will come back with renewed 
      strength, particularly when the tone of the war improves.