“Mr. President, what do we do if a U-boat does attack? I agree it’s unlikely. But suppose it happens?” Roosevelt regarded him through wreathing cigarette smoke. “This is a gamble that it won’t happen.” “I know that, sir.” “You understand that a combat incident destroys the whole purpose,” the President said, “and you know the other implications.” “Yes, sir.” “Now tell me,” said the President, in a much milder manner, “what do you honestly think of the idea? It’s my own. If you think it’s bad, say so, but tell me why.”
