Thank you for the message delivered by M. M. Litvinov. In connection with the present difficulties in sailing and escorting ships to the U.S.S.R. I have already approached Prime Minister Churchill for his help in overcoming them as quickly as possible. As the delivery of cargoes from the U.S.A. and Britain in May is a pressing matter, I address the same request to you, Mr President.

V. M. Molotov will leave for the U.S.A. and Britain a few days later than planned - on account of weather vagaries. It appears that he can fly in a Soviet aircraft - both to Britain and the U.S.A. I should add that the Soviet Government thinks it necessary for Molotov to travel without any press publicity until he returns to Moscow, as was done in the case of Mr Eden's visit to Moscow last December.

As to Molotov's place of residence in Washington, both he and I thank you for your offer. J. Stalin