751G.551/2–1152: Telegram
The Chargé at Hanoi (Hubbard) to the Department of State
547. Rptd info Paris 197, Saigon 348.
- 1.
- Had a few words with Salan during official dinner given Letourneau by Huu last night. Salan said he himself was “firm” as [Page 35] military CINC, but question of HICOM still undecided; nor does he believe Letourneau knows answer yet.
- 2.
- After dinner, in replying to Huu address, Letourneau made long ex tempore speech, burden of which was appeal for faith in France, echoing De Lattre worship last April at Vinh-Yen, that he had come not to limit Vietnamese sovereignty, but to defend it. Letourneau said he realized position was very hard for all Vietnamese at present, especially in the delta; but with France behind them and US aid, Communism could and would be defeated.
- 3.
- Before dinner, I had brief words with Bishop of Bui-Chu who was very down in the mouth and said if help did not come soon his province would fall to Commies. Asked if US would send troops; I said I was afraid not Bishop said Bui-Chu itself has not yet been occupied, but VM are everywhere else in area. Shortly after I heard Bishop telling Letourneau much the same thing.
After dinner, I had several words more with Bishop, who said situation was desperate; Commies were winning people over. Bishop said he had come to Hanoi to tell officialdom the truth; referred to Letourneau speech as “nothing but words”. Asked if there would be a chance to see Minister Heath during latter’s trip to Hanoi today and tomorrow for Sontay ceremony. I said I feared schedule was extremely tight and doubted if it could be done; but I begged he feel free to call on Consulate if able before he left town.