390.1115A/364: Telegram
The Consul General at Batavia ( Foote ) to the Secretary of State
[Received February 25—2:30 a.m.]
13. Reference is made to the Department’s telegram No. 8, February 20, 5 [4] p.m.,15 received by the Consulate General February 22 from the American Consul General at Singapore.
1. With reference to the possibility of suggesting that American women and children and men whose presence is not essential withdraw to the United States I respectfully submit the following suggestions.
2. The sudden withdrawal of Americans would be regarded with regret by this Government and would be viewed with mild contempt by the local population. The only other local reaction would be a slight increase in uneasiness or fear of invasion. The presence of Americans has had a calming effect up to the present time.
3. The effect on the general situation especially this country’s relations with Japan is a highly debatable question which the Department is far more qualified to answer. I venture, however, to submit the following suggestions: If the United States should intervene before the Japanese strike a blow at the Netherlands Indies there would probably be no hostilities in this country and no reason therefore to suggest that Americans withdraw. The withdrawal of Americans might cause the Japanese to believe that the United States would not intervene. This might lead to hostilities.
On the contrary the Japanese might regard withdrawal from the Netherlands Indies as a clearing of decks for action which might have a sobering effect on them. At any rate the Japanese would probably view the withdrawal in the same manner as they did the extension of this policy to the Far East. The Department will undoubtedly know whether it was considered as a sign of strength or lack of interest. If the United States does not intend to oppose the Japanese actively, this country will probably be invaded in the not distant future.
4. If withdrawal should be decided upon, I respectfully suggest that it be done at once because of the probability that there will be no means of leaving this country after hostilities begin or even prior thereto.