[Messersmith, G.S.], [Washington]. To Rodney M. Layton, Lawrenceville, N.J., 1938 February 25

Naval program provides for expansion of fleet; program essential to preserve peace and as measure of defense; peace of the world threatened; developments in communication and transportation prevent U.S. isolation; dictators violate international law and have no regard for treaty obligations; they have definite designs on western hemisphere.