President [1] has agreed to complete the confidential strategic
staff conversations between Great Britain and the United States.

The President had some misgivings arising from the possibility of
leakage of information that they were taking place.

Officers mentioned in my telegram No. 400 [2] will represent
Britain. Admiral and General leaving England very shortly. Arrival
date uncertain.

The British Ambassador [3] believes unwise in view of President's
hesitant attitude to suggest expanding the numbers involved by
adding Australian representation.

However, I understood from Burrell [4] that Boucher [5] likely to
be travelling Australia to England at an early date. If at all
possible I suggest his coming here en route as soon as possible.

Once he is here I have little doubt that I Will be able to work
him in. In any case he will be able to see United States Naval
Plans confidentially.

Above regarded as completely secret.

If you decide to agree to proposal for Naval Attache here you
might appoint Boucher temporarily and replace him by another with
or without the intervening interval of time. [6]

CASEY