The sinking of the Dorsetshire and the Cornwall by air attack [1],
now followed by the sinking of the Hermes [2], raises such vital
questions that I feel the time has come when you should consider
whether you should not telegraph to the United Kingdom Government
asking for full information as to the present position and future
policy.

If you should decide to do so I suggest that after expressing the
natural anxieties you feel at recent happenings you should ask as
to the cause of them and for an appreciation of the United
Kingdom-United States of America and Japanese position in regard
to aeroplane carriers; types of planes carried and views held as
to relative efficiency of planes and personnel.

In addition to asking for the United Kingdom Government's views as
to immediate and long range policy on this important question you
may also think fit to give an indication of the Australian
Government's attitude.

BRUCE