Proof (a)Document 1418E, (Exhibit No. 607): "December 3, 1941 "Sensational move by Japan* The Japanese Ambassador asks for an audience with the Duce and reads him a long statement on the progress of the negotiations with America, concluding with the assertion that they have reached a dead end. Then, invoking the apposite clause in the Tripartite Pact, he asks that Italy declare war on America immediately after the beginning of hostilities between Japan and America and that Italy and Japan sign an agreement not to conclude a separate peace. The interpreter translating this request was trembling like a leaf. The Duce gave fullest assurances, reserving the right to confer with Berlin before giving a reply. The Duce was pleased with the communication. He said: 'We are now on the brink of the inter-continental war which I predicted as early as September 1939*' What does this new event mean? In any case, it means that Boosevelt has succeeded in his maneuver. Since he could not enter into the war immediately and directly, he has entered it indirectly by letting himself be attacked by Japan. Furthermore, this event also means that every prospect of peace is becoming further and further removed, and that it is now easy - much too easy - to predict a long war. Who will be able to hold out longest? It is on this basis that the problem must be considered. Berlin's answer will be somewhat delayed, because Hitler has gone to the Southern front to see General KLEIST, whose armies continue to give way under the pressure of an unexpected Soviet offensive.