860C.00/11–2846: Telegram
The Chargé in Poland (Keith) to the Secretary of State
[Received November 28—11:20 a.m.]
1834. Mikolajczyk received me afternoon 27th. As soon as I entered his office he handed me copy of text of communication which he had presented personally to Bierut (referred to in Deptel 1124 of November 2565). He explained that he was not giving this to me officially but for my observation and knowledge of its contents. I then referred to my previous talk with him and said I had again heard from Washington which still thought it unwise because of complications cited for communications to be given to Yalta powers. I mentioned possibility that he might get President Bierut to transmit such copies. In response he smiled and it was obvious he did not think it desirable or effective procedure.
Mikolajczyk then diverted for moment to speak of arrests which he reports are continuing at rapid pace. He had just received word that within last 2 or 3 days over 300 PSL leaders in Lodz District have been arrested. Also in Warsaw, Koter, chief of organization department of PSL, and Wiewiorski, one of Gazeta Ludowa editors, have been arrested. He also said that thus far every nominee made by PSL as a member of an electoral commission has been rejected.
Before leaving Mikolajczyk asked me to take copy of communication which he had given to Bierut and examine it. He called my attention particularly to its conclusion of which note he had translation made. He said he felt that if he did not receive satisfaction from Bierut he would still have to present copies to representatives of three Yalta Powers.
He is aware of Ambassador Lane’s early return. From his remarks to me I feel confident that he will not take step against which I have [Page 524] advised at least until after Ambassador’s return and I am sure he does not mean to be inattentive to friendly advice. He is undoubtedly influenced, however, by fact that he sees PSL as a political party becoming so weakened and disorganized through repressive action of Government that he must inevitably bring situation to attention of three Governments.
I expect to see Mikolajczyk again within next few days when I shall inquire whether he may then be disposed to revise his present decision.