Editorial Note
The only source found for this meeting is an informal memorandum prepared by Harriman, which contains the following information on the conversation:
“The Prime Minister seemed quite satisfied with his talk with General Marshall which had taken place at dinner the night before.1 He was quite apologetic for keeping him up so late but said he thought it was fruitful.
“He talked about the Italian situation and was quite optimistic that ‘important results’ would occur.
“He was elated over the Sicilian news.
“He seemed satisfied that the differences between the Chiefs of Staff could be ironed out. He does not fully understand the suspicion that exists on the American side regarding the British determination to cross the Channel. On paper the differences don’t look very great. I believe, however, that this fear will be removed within the next day or two as I am convinced the British now see the opportunity equally favorably as do our Chiefs of Staff, which has not been the case up to now. The above would be based on acceptance of British Mediterranean proposals.
“(Admiral Leahy told me that he was much impressed by the logic of General Brooke’s presentation.2)
“I told the Prime Minister I was quite satisfied from discussions that Leathers and Douglas had had that the troop lift and cargo ships could be found to back up the strategic proposals.” (Harriman Papers)