252 Dunk to Watt

Thank you for your two letters of the 1st and 7th September. [1] I have written to Sir Frederic on the staff situation and no doubt you will see the letter. [2] It is the best I can do at the moment. Frankly, I find a very bad administrative and staff situation right through the department. Here it is almost hopeless. The drafting of one officer even on a temporary job has quite severe repercussions on the working of the department. This, of course, is quite an absurd administrative situation which must be corrected and I will do my best, but I do not think there is any prospect of obtaining quick answers.

You know me well enough I think for me not to have to assure you that I am deeply interested in the working of our overseas offices, and of Washington in particular. I am fully aware of Washington's vital importance as a centre for post-war discussion and political activity and of the necessity for the legation being staffed for its present and future tasks. You will know too that I will always appreciate the frankest possible advice and information from you on any question concerning the department.

I sincerely hope that I can build the position up so that you will not have to complain of lack of information of plans and activity at this end.

I am very sorry in many ways that I am not there now to take part in the very important discussions proceeding on the mandates determination and future commercial policy. I feel that I should be, but there is a man-size job to do here.

Please convey my regards to McIntyre, Brigden and other members of the staff.

W. E. DUNK