893.24/1539b: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Minister in Afghanistan (Engert)
69. 1. The Office of Lend-Lease Administration desires to send Mr. Gordon Bowles, an American citizen, to China, via India, Afghanistan and Russia, to explore motorable routes. He would be accompanied by an American mechanic. They would travel in a truck and a small passenger vehicle. They hope to leave the United States for India in the near future, to proceed thence to Afghanistan, and to cross the Soviet-Afghan border in January at Termes or Kelif on the Amu Darya.
2. If necessary, please take such steps as may be appropriate to obtain permission for Bowles and mechanic to make the desired journey through Afghanistan.
3. For your information, Bowles plans for arrangements, through the Soviet Embassy at Kabul, for chauffeurs and assistants for travel through the Soviet Union.
4. The Embassy at Kuibyshev is being instructed to request necessary permission for travel through Soviet Union.
5. Prompt reply requested.