123 P 54/608: Telegram
The Officer in Charge at New Delhi (Merrell) to the Secretary of State
[Received July 3—10:41 a.m.]
448. Commander-in-Chief55 in conversation with Lane56 expressed great regret Mr. Phillips not returning. To reply that Mission is informed only that return deferred to cool weather, Auchinleck said in warmest terms he greatly appreciated Mr. Phillips not only for personal qualities but because of his views on requirements of Indian situation. He displayed accurate knowledge of them and of the lack of sympathy toward some of them in high quarters here and London and strongly hoped Mr. Phillips would return and persevere. He appeared to imply that he would endeavor to provide not only sympathy but would perhaps find means of collaboration.
In view of Commander-in-Chief’s reputation for liberal views, popularity and apparent desire to contribute to easing tension in India, Mr. Phillips will presumably wish to consider this obviously deliberate expression of his attitude.
However, while the sincerity of the Commander-in-Chief is unquestioned it is not believed that he can exert decisive influence on the men in London and Delhi who determine British policy in regard to India. The Mission has not received any indication that a solution of the political deadlock is probable.