June 16, 1944

Dear Margaret,

The news today was all good -- the landing on Saipan, outflanking Guam, Truk and the Philippines was bold. According to one commentator it was even insolent. It means that the fighting here will proceed simultaneously with that in Europe. This adds up to a much more rapid conclusion. We had some wounded Jap prisoners here overnight. They were terribly emaciated and malnourished. One of them was a lieutenant who had been a student at the University of Tokyo, and he spoke very good English. When we entered the ward, they all sat up and bowed ceremoniously. We talked at some length. Then McGregor, who is no respecter of persons or dignity, turned to the lieutenant and in a high-pitched sing-song voice said, "Confucius say Japan doesn't not have a Chinaman's chance." After that the lieutenant shut up like a clam, and the interview was over.

Much love,

Herb