751G.5/4–154: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Embassy at Saigon1
1831. Eyes only for Ambassador from Secretary. In facing critical period ahead in Indochina, I wish you to be fully prepared, so far as [Page 1206] instructions from us are concerned, to meet all contingencies rapidly and effectively from point of view US interests. Without wishing to adopt alarmist attitude, one of these contingencies, remote I hope, would be one in which French decided to abandon struggle under conditions which confronted local Governments, especially that of Vietnam, with hard decision of either capitulating to Communists or of continuing struggle alone. I would not wish that decision to be taken by Government of Vietnam or of other Associated States until and unless US given opportunity of examining situation and determining extent to which by positive action we can insure continuance of struggle under favorable conditions.
You are therefore authorized, should situation develop along lines indicated above and should opportunity not exist for full consultation with Department, to approach local Governments on basis of urgency, and, without making any specific commitment, urge them not to take any definite action until they and we have been able examine problem and are able determine measures which may be jointly undertaken in order prevent Communist takeover. You are further authorized to state, in event of situation envisaged, that decision will be made promptly at very highest level our Government which is most anxious assist in keeping area free.
- Drafted by Bonsal of PSA.↩