741.92/12–1445: Telegram
The Political Adviser in Siam (Yost) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 14—11 a.m.]
65. Thai Govt has decided to sign British agreement without reservations. Cabinet was almost unanimous though Sidi [Sent] stood out to the end. General feeling was that Thailand as a small country faced by a great one has no alternative but to yield, that it has already delayed more than 3 months without improving situation, and that further delay might result in hardening of British terms. There are only two qualifications on decision to sign:
- 1.
- Dening will be asked to address a letter to the delegation stating that these are the minimum terms which British will accept, that it is not willing to negotiate and that it insists on signature of agreement as it stands. This letter would be published along with the terms of agreement. If Dening refuses to write such a letter, it is probable that Thai will sign anyway but will themselves issue a public statement along these same lines.
- 2.
- If Dening should at last moment interject French question into the agreement, the whole matter will have to be referred back to Bangkok for reconsideration.
Prince Wiwat returning to Singapore today. It would thus appear that unless Dening refuses to write letter referred to above or introduce French issue, signature of agreement or at least preliminary exchange of letters between plenipotentiaries may take place within next day or two.