501.BC Indonesia/11–1948: Telegram
The Consul General at Batavia (Livengood) to the Secretary of State
us urgent
niact
1016. Gocus 449. Sudjono told me noon November 18 telegram received from Hatta’s secretary to effect Prime Minister obliged depart Sumatra on urgent business but could return Jogja on short notice if situation required. I promptly telephoned Riphagen this message. Press reports confirm Hatta departure 18th.
Visited Schuurman 10:30 a. m., today. He said instructions for resumption conversations with Republic received from Hague 17th together with material for communiqué. His group planned proceed Jogja 19th. Subsequently Hague requested nothing be done pending receipt replace instructions and communiqué. Neither received by 11 a. m., today.
Schuurman said original instructions indicated his group was to reopen Kaliurang conversations for elucidation few points including TNI and army command. He said question which caused confusion in Cabinet was presumably whether Republic undertakings given Stikker on these points were acceptable. He thought whenever clear cut instructions received not more than 2 days would be needed at Kaliurang to determine whether Republic can meet requirements. He [Page 494] said decisions would probably necessitate Hatta’s presence and some delay might be involved in getting him from Sumatra to Jogja. For present everything in abeyance pending receipt further instructions.
Usgoc 1791 arrived evening 18th. 11 a. m., today, received Niact relay of 789 from Hague2 wherein Boon cancels Stikker’s request made in Usgoc 179 that approach Republic on above mentioned points. I had taken no action. Usgoc 1803 also came this forenoon.
It has been my constant endeavor render Stikker every assistance in achieving equitable settlement and refrain from any action my part or recommendation toward action by my government which might embarrass him or jeopardize his chances in Cabinet. If and when Stikker may return Indo, as indicated possible in Hague’s 789, I will, of course, continue cooperate.
I recommend that démarche suggested paragraphs 4 and 5 Gocus 4424 be postponed as long as there is prospect of Stikker returning Indo and resuming conversations. If he does this and subsequently meets difficulties in Indo I might find how we could best strengthen his hand. If Embassy reports from Hague decision taken Stikker not return Indo and definitely defeated by promilitary parties, then suggest making démarche promptly. Signed Cochran.