320/9–753: Telegram
The Chargé in Turkey (Rountree) to the Department of State
256. Following my approach Foreign Office pursuant Department telegram 231, Turkish Government again considered question candidacy for SC’s and Secretary General discussed matter with me today. He repeated government’s concern that unsuccessful overt effort win SC’s seat would be embarrassing to government particularly in view early elections. I gathered from conversation that instructions to Sarper mentioned Embassy telegram 189 underlined caution in approaching other delegations.
Secretary General said, however, that he would telegraph Sarper today asking him to consult US delegation to ascertain its present views as to Turk chances of success. If US delegation feels thereby potentially strong support, Sarper will be authorized work in conjunction with US in making preliminary soundings other delegations. Open solicitation of support will follow only if success reasonably assured.
I of course emphasized importance of moving ahead quickly.