Moreover, the Germans concealed their intentions. The confiscated objects become the property of the Reich. No receipt will be given. The right of third parties, especially those of lessors or of owners of store houses, is to be considered as having become void. As to general questions by the local French authorities concerning the operations, they must be answered verbally, to the effect that this is a punitive measure ordered by a higher authority.
All additional explanations are superfluous.
I offer in evidence a copy of this letter as Exhibit RF 1314. Here is the passage which I shall read to the Tribunal.