856E.00/1–1347: Telegram
The Consul General at Batavia (Foote) to the Secretary of State
urgent
13. Comments on my telegram 12, January 10:
Indo press and leaders belittle results Den Pasar Conference, calling it comic opera. At same time more conservative Indos feel Republic is falling behind as East Indonesia is preparing for peace and reconstruction. Whatever outcome may be, there will be much agitation by more extreme Indo leaders against Republic becoming state similar to East Indonesia. For this reason, Dutch policy, if Koets is right, may be dangerous and give rise further agitation, fighting, chaos and more delay in establishing peace and beginning reconstruction of industries and economic life in general.
Ambitious young Indos are looking forward to heading diplomatic missions to foreign countries and failure do so may increase friction. Indos expect receive Ministers from other countries but Van Mook said Netherlands Government probably will ask other nations accredit Ministers to United States of India [Indonesia] instead of Republic. If and when all these matters become known to Indos such may support actions of extremists in opposing agreement with Dutch.
Unless situation changes radically or unless Soekarno can eliminate obstructionists I see little hope for peace or any form of reconstruction probably for many months. If situation deteriorates or if moderate leaders lose what little control they have, I fear further fighting, more chaos and delay in reconstruction efforts.