740.0011 European War 1939/874: Telegram
The Chargé in Germany (Kirk) to the Secretary of State
[Received 3:17 p.m.]
1838. Personal for the Secretary. In continuation of my 1817, October 24, further information in the line of an explanation of the concentration of German troops on the Belgian and Dutch frontiers has reached me from unofficial sources to the effect that these troops which are not mechanized consist of reserves for a possible offensive against the Maginot Line and have been established in that sector as constituting an area better protected from enemy air raids. It has further been intimated also from unofficial sources that explanations of these concentrations might be forthcoming from the German side if requested by the Belgian and Netherlands Governments but that any steps along these lines other than those which may have already been taken might be subject to serious objections.
In connection with the foregoing I need not assure you that in my conversations on the matter in question the confidential and personal nature of your instructions is being strictly observed.