The development of the situation in the North Pacific
 
and Alaskan area presents tangible evidence that the Japanese may
 
be preparing to conduct operations against the Maritime Provinces
 
of the Soviet Union. In the event of such an attack we are prepared
 
to come to your assistance with our air power, provided suitable
 
lain g fields are available in Siberia.
 
     In order that such an operation can be promptly
 
carried out, the efforts of the United States and the Soviet Union
 
mast be carefully coordinated.
 
     I was very happy to le am through Litvinoff  that you
 
have approved of the movemeats of our planes from Alaska through
 
Northern Russia to your western battlefront. In order to meet this
 
new danger in the Pacific area, I believe that an immediate exchange
 
of detailed information pertaining to existing establishments in the
 
Siberia-Alaska area and the initiation of secret staff conversations
 
between our army, navy, and air representatives are essential to our
 
common interests. I consider this matter of such urgency that our
 
conferees should be empowered to make definite plans and initiate action.
 
I propose that you and I designate such representatives and that they meet in Washington 
 
immediately.