800.515/939: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in the Soviet Union (Harriman)

244. Department’s 85, January 14, 11 p.m. and Embassy’s 252, January 26, noon. Due to the necessity for proceeding with producing currency, discussed in reference telegrams, we will have to go forward with printing starting no later than February 14.

We are very desirous of having some comment from the Soviet Government if possible before that date as it will be impossible to make any changes once the process of production starts.

We are contemplating producing enough to supply Soviet needs if desired. Would like very much to know whether Soviet use of this form of currency is contemplated, and, if not, what kind of currency they expect to use.

Hull