File No. 763.72/4678½
The Secretary of State to the Japanese Ambassador ( Sato)
My Dear Mr. Ambassador: I have read with much satisfaction the communication which you were good enough to deliver to me this afternoon on behalf of your Government.
May I request you to be so kind as to advise the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Japan that the United States reciprocates warmly the expressions of good will and friendship which the communication which you handed to me contains? My Government will consider the sending of a special mission to Washington by the Imperial Government as an evidence of the friendly spirit which animates that Government and will most heartily welcome them as representing a Government and people with whom we are united not only by mutual interests which have long existed, but who are joined to us by a new bond of cooperation against a common foe.
Your Excellency may add that the communication of the Imperial Government will be considered strictly confidential for the present, as requested by that Government, and I will await a further communication from them as to the personnel of the mission, which I hope will be sent speedily since the time for action is already here.
With my very warm regards I am [etc.]