890.20/5–549: Telegram
The Chargé in the Philippines (Lockett) to the Secretary of State
1194. Reference Department’s airgram A–158 April 16. Embassy not in position verify accuracy Bulletin story March 28 reporting that Elizalde had informed Malacanan1 of favorable reaction in US to proposed Pacific Pact. Possible that Elizalde may have rendered report of somewhat lukewarm reaction to proposed pact to President and Foreign Office, supporters of pact may have puffed up Elizalde report [Page 1143] and given out optimistic report of reaction to press. Quite possible, on other hand, Elizalde, … may have derided idea of pact to Department and yet, in order to appease President for purpose continuing office little longer, told him reaction to proposal in US favorable.
Embassy for its part has told President nothing about reaction Department to proposal. On basis statement Secretary press conference March 22 and information contained memo conversation Butterworth Elizalde March 232 has deduced Department extremely cautious proposal and unwilling be drawn into any extended public comment pact. Would appreciate statement policy this matter which could be appropriately called attention President.
At first opportunity I will casually ask President what was reaction from Elizalde on Pacific Pact.