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26 Nov. 45
hope that, as long as the British World
Empire existed, one day they could advance against Japan together
with Great Britain, whereas, in case of the collapse of the World
Empire, they would be totally isolated and could not do anything
against Japan.
"The Reich Foreign Minister interjected that the Americans
precisely under all circumstances wanted to maintain the powerful
position of England in East Asia, but that on the other hand it is
proved by this attitude, to what extent she fears a joint action of
Japan and Germany.
"Matsuoka continued that it seemed to him of importance to
give to the Führer an absolutely clear picture of the real
attitude inside Japan. For this reason he also had to inform him
regretfully of the fact that he, Matsuoka, in his capacity as
Japanese Minister for Foreign Affairs, could not utter in Japan a
single word of all that he had expounded before the Führer and
the Reich Foreign Minister regarding his plans. This would cause him
serious damage in political and financial circles. Once before, he
had committed the mistake, before he became Japanese Minister for
Foreign Affairs, to tell a close friend something about his
intentions. It seems that the latter had spread these things, and
thus brought about all sorts of rumors, which he, as Foreign
Minister, had to oppose energetically, though as a rule he always
tells the truth. Under these circumstances he also could not indicate
how soon he could report on the questions discussed to the Japanese
Premier or to the Emperor. He would have to study exactly and
carefully, in the first place, the development in Japan, so as to
make his decision at a favorable moment, to make a clear breast of
his proper plans towards the Prince Konoye and the Emperor. Then the
decision would have to be made within a few days, because the plans
would otherwise be spoiled by talk.
"Should he, Matsuoka, fail to carry out his intentions, that
would be proof that he is lacking in influence, in power of
conviction, and in tactical capabilities. However, should he succeed,
it would prove that he had great influence in Japan. He himself felt
confident that he would succeed.
"On his return, being questioned, he would indeed admit to
the Emperor, the Premier and the Ministers for the Navy and the Army,
that Singapore had been discussed; he would, however, state that it
was only on a hypothetical basis.
"Besides this, Matsuoka made the express request not to
cable in the matter of Singapore, because he had reason to
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