107. Letter From the Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs (Harriman) to the Ambassador in Vietnam (Lodge)1

Dear Cabot: Thanks for your note of the 28th2 in regard to the prompt action taken on one of your messages which is difficult always to do.

All hands here have great admiration for the courageous and incisive manner in which you have moved so rapidly in your new responsibilities.

What makes for some confusion, and therefore some delay in answers to your messages, is the matter of some differences that exist between General Harkins’ estimates and conclusions and your own. I assume you see all his messages. It might be helpful where you find yourself in disagreement if you would comment on the differences and explain why. Perhaps there is not as much difference as appears from this end, and therefore an explanation of the differences which do exist and the reasons for them would be helpful.

In this connection, it was of course clearly understood here that General Krulak’s reports were based on his contacts with the military, whereas Mendenhall’s were based on the civilian.

I suggest you keep this letter personal between us and not refer to it in telegrams. These get wide distribution. I hope you will feel free to call upon me at any time you feel that I can personally be of assistance to you.

I can assure you that from the President on down everybody is determined to support you and the country team in winning the war against the Viet Cong. There may be some differences in opinion or in emphasis as to how it is to be done, but there are no quitters here.

The photographs in the press of your short-sleeved walk through the market place got you a lot of votes here, and I am sure make a new impression of an American Ambassador and his wife in Saigon.

Marie joins in sending you and Emily our love and all best wishes.

Sincerely,

Averell3
  1. Source: Library of Congress, Harriman Papers, Vietnam Policy. Personal and Confidential.
  2. Not found.
  3. Printed from a copy that bears this stamped signature.