i i In Colonel Poltti's paragraph (3), point (a) it is unfortunate that he does not favor us with an accurate statement, if my figures are inaccurate as to the distribution of bread in the area of Frosinone Brovince covered in the report. Point (b). The statement of starvation in Frosinone Province was given as the opinion of certain individuals named and were not presented as facts but as their opinion. Inasmnch as the winter has not yet begun, opinion, in this writer's belief is the only possible source of information. Point (c). In reference to paragraph 4 of page 2, Colonel Poletti states that this is inaccurate. It would be helpful if he would give us the correct import if the figures quoted by the supply officer of ovince are inaccurate or if I have incorrectly quoted his f His point (d) states that my statement on the use of railway cars and Army trucks do not give a true picture. May I refer to the fact that Allied Force Headquarters, as reported by Major J. G. Kiplinger on October 7, has stated that a directire is being prepared to channelize returning nvoys to achieve the end as outlined in my report of October In point (e), Colonel Poletti criticizes the report as not giving a true picture on trade "in a manner historically familiar to Italy". In the conference of October 9 Prime Minister Benoral stated that bans and restrictions that seem to somewhat restrain such trade are being lifted with the hope that it will assist in meeting conditions as outlined by the Italians charged with the responsibility in the specific area reported upon. Colonel Poletti states that conditions in the "southern part of Frosinone are bad, very bad" and supports the contention of the report as to the necessity in this area for attention. It is my desire to make any reports submitted to you completely objective and in no sense critical of persons or administrations. The writer intends to state the facts as seen referring to the source of such. facts, as well as offering an opinion as to their solution. In this manner it is hoped reports can be kept objective. Respectfully, Howard B. Barr. {Howard B. Barr} |