684A.85/2–1750: Telegram
The Ambassador in Israel (McDonald) to the Secretary of State
priority
119. At my request Shiloah with Kollek1 at residence, February 16 said he and possibly Dayan to meet with Abdullah and Samir (Geneva [Page 748] for USPCC and USTC) night February 17 in Transjordan. Shiloah’s letter of “few days ago” to Samir recalling their agreement February 3 on another meeting was not answered; but Shiloah’s later indirect approach to Samir was promptly accepted.
Shiloah said he is not optimistic. Confident King still wants agreement but fears he may not be able build Cabinet willing to take responsibility for agreement with Israel. Shiloah credits Samir with intelligent, earnest desire secure settlement and being willing risk much to get it.
Information Shiloah gave me re Transjordan Cabinet meeting February 13 was similar that Amman Legtel 10 February 13.2
Comment: I believe Shiloah as usual is telling truth but not necessarily whole truth. End comment.
[Here follows the last paragraph, dealing with the health of Prime Minister Ben-Gurion.]
Sent Department 119, repeated Jerusalem 10, Department pass Geneva 1, London 29.