767.68119/10–446: Telegram
The Chargé in Turkey (Bursley) to the Secretary of State
[Received October 5—2:35 a.m.]
1075. Reply my query tonight re last paragraph Soviet note, Erkin said language diabolically vague. He thinks object make Turks believe there will be conference but what Soviets really seek is negotiations with Turks which if agreement reached really decides outcome conference; if Turks Soviets failed reach accord Soviets would say no use holding conference. Under this interpretation he thinks matters little (mytel 106789) whether language relates conference under point 4 or general one.
Re timing Turk reply, he said still planned after meeting Cabinet. He made no mention additional day or two (last paragraph mytel 106690) but said his present draft note was that to be presented Cabinet unless we or British had suggestions.