two powers were attacked by one or several powers without the participation of the Soviet Union and to afford them political and economic and, to the extent possible to her power, military assistance. 1,1 In spite of this Japan is ready, in accordance with the provisions of such an agreement to take up the military support of Germany and Italy5 however, Japan is, in view of the situation in which it now finds itself, neither presently nor in th$ near future able to extend to them in a practical manner any effective military aid. However, it goes without saying that Japan would gladly grant this support if it should become possible through a change in the circumstances. 1,11 should especially like to receive Germany's and Italy's express consent to the foregoing point. 1,1 Furthermore, in consequence of the international situation which confronts it, Japan would be compelled to exercise the greatest caution in regard to the explication which it would give at the time of the publication of this agreement. I would be glad to receive the unequivocal assent of Germany and Italy on this point also. ,,f I may add that the planned agreement rests upon the foundation of mutual confidence, and that to doubt the sincerity of my country in the slightest would be tantamount to destroying the real basis of the agreement and would make its execution impossible. H,The thoughts which I have just portrayed arise from reflections of a moral and spiritual nature and can not