Cablegram Winch 12 [1] LONDON, 13 March 1942, 11.55 p.m.
CLEAR THE LINE MOST SECRET AND PERSONAL
Your Johcu 25. [2] Both principal Ministers I have consulted and Chiefs of Staff are agreed in wanting Casey for this Most important post which requires military experience and knowledge of public affairs both ministerial and diplomatic. [3] I had a whole evening in the train with Casey when I was in America, and learned from him that he was very anxious for a change. Indeed he suggested that he might go as a liaison officer to the ABDA area when this was being shaped. I have no doubt he would greatly welcome this appointment which also strikes the note of bringing Statesmen from all over the Empire to the highest direction of affairs. I will venture to court your rebuke by asking whether Menzies [4], with his great distinction and success when passing through America, might not fill the gap caused by Casey leaving Washington. However this may be, and I trust you will not resent my intrusion upon your affairs, I should be very grateful if you would reconsider your demurrer.
I will cable you to-morrow on the President’s [5] proposals for the two areas. [6]
CHURCHILL
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1 Sent through the U.K. Dominions Office.
2 Document 409.
3 See Document 406.
4 R. G. Menzies had visited the United States in May 1941 when lie was Prime Minister.
5 Franklin D. Roosevelt.
6 No such cablegram appears to have been sent, but see Documents 410 11 and 417.
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[PRO:DO 35/1009, i]