Foreign Relations of the United States, 1947, The Far East, Volume VI

851G.00/4–447: Telegram

The Consul at Saigon (Reed) to the Secretary of State

restricted

Saigon, April 4, 1947—3 p.m.

105. Returning from Hanoi where attended funeral General [Colonel] Debes,⁷³ Bollaert has begun series of consultations to put self in contact with overall situation. No developments expected immediate future. According to report military situation in north is excellent but widespread sabotage, guerrilla activities continue in Cochin-China and there are reports continuing trouble Cambodia, also outbreak some trouble Laos. Apparent that Viet Minh Army does not intend major battle but confine self to sabotage, guerrilla activities.

Native press generally insistent French must deal with Ho and decries talk of restoration Baodai although mentioning he might act as go-between French and Ho—equally insistent union three “Kys.”⁷⁴

Representatives many native political elements gathering Saigon for anticipated conversations with Bollaert and his political advisors. There is a general air of conciliation and majority hope for a speedy settlement of the situation.

Dept please repeat to Paris.

Reed

73. Commanding officer in Tonkin since the departure of General Morlière; killed March 30 in a plane crash.
74. Administrative districts (or countries), Cochin China, Annam, and Tonkin.