800.796/8–344
The Assistant Secretary of State (Berle) to the Chairman of the Civil Aeronautics Board (Pogue)
Dear Welch: Thank you for your letter of August 3, 1944. Further study of the Soviet memorandum (copy of which I enclose)60 reveals certain contradictions in it which may somewhat modify the first impression we had, though perhaps not too much. But, like you, I am inclined to believe that the ultimate determination of policy will have to be discussed in Moscow. Before tackling the President on it, I want to see whether the Secretary thinks it wise to discuss the matter with Molotov. I agree with you that ultimately a policy of hermetically closed air is flying in the face of both technological and political currents; and I feel as earnestly about it as you do.
Sincerely yours,