The second paragraph deals with taking possession of the West Frisian Islands.
It is clear, in my submission, beyond discussion that from that moment the decision to violate the neutrality of these three countries had been made. All that remained was to work out the details, to wait until the weather became favorable, and in the meantime, to give no hint that Germany’s word was about to be broken again. Otherwise these small countries might have had some chance of combining among themselves and with their neighbors.
It will be Exhibit GB-106.
Well, the next document is a Keitel directive. It is Document 440-PS (Exhibit GB-107). It, again, is sent to the Supreme Command of the Army, the Navy, and the Air Force; and it gives details of how the attack is to be carried out. I want to read only a very few selected passages. Paragraph 2 on the first page:
“Contrary to previously issued instructions, all action intended against Holland may be carried out without a special order when the general attack will start.
“The attitude of the Dutch Armed Forces cannot be anticipated ahead of time.”
And then may I comment here: Would Your Lordship note this as a German concession?
“Wherever there is no resistance the entry should carry the character of a peaceful occupation.”
Then Paragraph (b) of the next paragraph: