611.6131/443: Telegram
The Ambassador in the Soviet Union ( Davies ) to the Secretary of State
[Received July 2—2:40 p.m.]
144. In personal conference with Litvinov today discussed commercial agreement at length and strongly emphasized points suggested in Department’s telegrams numbers 70, June 23, 6 p.m., and 77, July 1,3 p.m., and instruction No. 114, May 24.64 I left with him drafts of proposed communications to be interchanged covering specific provisions enumerated in Department’s 77 of July 1, 3 p.m., for consideration of Foreign Office and as basis for discussion in order that agreements on specific points might be speedily reached.
I am advised [advised him?] that Mission would give this matter first consideration in hope of arriving at agreement in principle prior to July 7th so as to insure execution of agreement prior to July 13th. Litvinov assured me that he would give necessary directions to expedite negotiations. I explained at length domestic difficulties confronting the Secretary of State in the situation and presented reasons why the Soviet Union should agree to a substantial increase in its obligations to purchase American goods. Litvinov made notes and I [Page 412] believe will cooperate in view of fairness of your offer. Will follow matter up diligently.