861.24/754½
The Acting Lend-Lease Administrator (Burns) to the Assistant Secretary of State (Acheson)
My Dear Mr. Acheson: As you know, the President, on November 7, 1941, found the defense of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics vital to the defense of the United States. Pursuant to this finding, I am arranging to have defense articles transferred to the Soviet Government as quickly as possible.
The Soviet Government has already filed the necessary papers under Sections 4 and 7 of the Lend-Lease Act. It might be advisable, however, to obtain a formal master agreement embodying the substance of the exchange of notes between the President and Premier Stalin, the representations under Sections 4 and 7 of the Lend-Lease Act and any other provisions deemed necessary or desirable.
Very sincerely yours,