856E.00/2–846: Telegram
The Consul General at Batavia (Foote) to the Secretary of State47
[Received February 9—2:45 p.m.]
42. General Stopford48 and Clark Kerr arrived, created fine impression, confidence and some optimism. Stopford appears good soldier who will not hesitate carry out orders and Clark Kerr impressed Indos as frank, kind and firm. Sjahrir after first talk rushed to Djocja to lay facts before Soekarno, Hatta49 and other leaders. Am reliably informed Sjahrir so impressed he will urge others seek agreement rather than lose all. Sjahrir said he or Soekarno probably be chief Indo delegate but general belief is Sjahrir will act. My impression is Clark Kerr and Stopford will be firm, unwavering and not tolerate stalling by Indos. If so, Dutch-Indo agreement is possible. Van Mook is more cheerful than for many months which is always good sign but fact is real negotiations not begun.
Have talked with Clark Kerr, Van Mook and Stopford and they promised keep me informed of developments. Clark Kerr went further and volunteered to inform me of every phase of negotiations. He asked me how long I thought negotiations would continue and when I replied anywhere from few weeks to many months he said he would not stay here many months. Whatever outcome may be, Sjahrir has difficult task ahead because of opposition of extremists who causing trouble for Sjahrir Cabinet.