851G.01/9–2247: Telegram
The Consul at Saigon (Reed) to the Secretary of State
307. Chief of Sûreté, just back from Hanoi, called and in brief conversation told me: Bao Dai had agreed to come back negotiate some time ago but was agreed with French he not to do so at that time to avoid appearance his agreement put-up job; not optimistic Bao Dai can succeed but under present plan Bao Dai will set up provisional government and try win over sufficient supporters to insure outcome any possible referendum in his favor; French military still want take things their hands but now seems possible military operations will be in cooperation Bao Dai’s govt and political manoeuverings; seems clear certain amount defection from Viet Minh ranks but not enough greatly weaken Ho and no lasting peace solution FIC situation without taking Ho in consideration—this why French military hope “unfortunate accident” may happen to Ho.
Source stated he now being consulted by Bollaert whereas formerly was ignored, also latter somewhat “disgusted” with “childish” political manoeuvers present Councillor Political Affairs who has been carrying out some negotiations with “Petsaratjue” [Phetsarat?] which have disturbed matters in Laos.
Source said situation vis-à-vis Chinese in Tonkin rather disturbing as in place former congregations Chinese forces brought about dissolution these congregations and installed association of overseas Chinese which is organ “Kuomintang” and to be feared. French trying to reintroduce congregation scheme but this opposed by Chinese, especially Consuls in Tonkin, and matter has been referred to Foreign Office Paris.
Hope see source again tomorrow when he has more time but may comment that while some progress made toward solution everything [Page 140] not yet clear and French are still trying put over their ideas. Source concluded Bollaert deliberately staying away from Saigon so as to avoid being drawn in local squabble in Cochin Chinese Govt.10
This telegram answers in part Deptel 160, September 19.
Another source just in from Hong Kong says Bao Dai, despite certain measure working with French, will insist much larger degree independence than that offered by Bollaert.
Please pass Paris.
- Dr. Hoach, having been outvoted, was replaced on October 1 by General Nguyen Van Xuan as President of the Provisional Government of the Republic of Cochin China.↩