711.00111 Armament Control/Military Secrets/1379a: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the Chargé in the Soviet Union ( Kirk )

164. Captain C. S. Joyce, U.S.N. retired, representing Gibbs and Cox, Incorporated, naval architects, is now en route to Moscow to explain to the appropriate Soviet authorities the plans referred to in the replies to questions 1, 2, 3, and 4 in the letter addressed to Gibbs on June 17 (see instruction No. 417 of July 2521). These plans are en route under seal by Soviet diplomatic pouch to be handed over to Joyce in Moscow. He will probably request you to keep them in your custody until arrangements are made for their return to this country.

[Page 707]

Mr. Gibbs states that this arrangement to communicate these plans to the Soviet Government is made in furtherance of the proposal to construct in this country a battleship, within treaty limitations, in accordance with revised plans now under preparation.

Hull
  1. Not printed.