Bundy--Have you got the word in on what is happening at sea?
Ball--No.
Bundy--The six most interesting ships have turned back. Two others are turning on. We are starting over here a thinking session as to what might be done which will be going on all afternoon. If you want to come, it would be helpful to have you. Walt is here. If there is anyone you want to send, send him. I have told the Secretary and you are the only two I have told. Will you alert anyone else you wish to alert?
Ball--I will. The other ships are going forward?
Bundy--Two tankers are coming on, but six interesting ships have turned back; six may not be a precise figure. Khrushchev told Lord Russell he thought it would be useful to have a top level meeting.
Ball--I'll be over.
Source: Department of State, Ball Papers: Lot 74 D 272, Telcons--Cuba. No classification marking appears on the source text.