740.00119 Council/10–1645: Telegram
The Ambassador in the Soviet Union (Harriman) to the Secretary of State
[Received October 16—6:30 a.m.]
3558. I saw Molotov yesterday and explained that it was the President’s wish that I deliver his message to Stalin personally as described in my No. 3541, October 14.49 Molotov stated that Stalin was some distance from Moscow and was not dealing with affairs of state. He agreed, however, to transmit my request to go to see him and stated that he fully understood the importance of the matters under consideration. Although Molotov received proposal politely, I got no impression as to whether or not my visit would be permitted. The conversation was without constraint.
I was surprised to receive this morning a letter from Molotov, written last night, informing me that he had telegraphed Stalin of my request to see him, made at the direction of the President, and that [Page 755] lie, Molotov, will inform me as soon as he receives a reply. If I am able to see Stalin I am satisfied that one of the matters which he will raise that he considers of first importance is the Japanese question. It would be most useful therefore if I could be informed urgently of what our attitude is towards Russian participation in the control machinery for Japan, use of Soviet forces in the occupation of Japan, how far we are prepared to consult with them on matters of policy and any other information which would be useful in allaying suspicions which he undoubtedly has in his mind regarding our policy towards Japan and our willingness to work with the Soviet Union on these matters. I have not in mind that I should negotiate a settlement of these questions but I believe it would be a unique opportunity to dispel undue and unjustified suspicions and attempt to get him in a more cooperative frame of mind.