The indications are that de Gaulle and his friends, who have arrived in the Soviet Union, will raise two questions. 1. Concluding a Franco-Soviet pact of mutual aid similar to the Anglo-Soviet pact. We shall find it hard to object. But I should like to know what you think. What do you advise. 2. De Gaulle will probably suggest revising the eastern frontier of France and shifting it to the left bank of the Rhine. There is talk, too, about a plan for forming a Rhine-Westphalian region under international control.

Possibly French
participation in the control is likewise envisaged. In other words, the French proposal for shifting the frontier line to the Rhine will compete with the plan for a Rhineland region under international control.

I would like your advice on this matter as well.

I have sent a similar message to Mr Churchill.

December 2, 1944