[From the end of July 1939, Bruce and A.T. Stirling, External
Affairs Officer in London, sent to Australia reports suggesting
increased German activity in Danzig and on the Polish frontier,
including considerable movements of German troops. They reported
also that Poland had reinforced her frontier, and that in an
atmosphere of incidents, reprisals and mutual recriminations,
there was a general fear that the deteriorating relationship
between German and Polish leaders could at any time precipitate
open warfare. (See AA: A981, Germany 67, i and ibid., Germany 83B,
iii.)]

Reference Ciano's visit to Hitler [1], the latter's conversation
with Burckhardt [2] and activity of the Pope [3] in trying to
bring about a settlement and avoid war, think it would be valuable
if you sent a personal cable to the Prime Minister [4] saying that
you had observed all these developments with great interest
expressing your confidence that the Prime Minister will leave no
stone unturned in his endeavour to take advantage of them,
particularly in persuading the Poles to adopt a reasonable and
restrained attitude and assuring him of your cordial support and
confidence.

BRUCE