751G.00/7–1553: Telegram
The Ambassador at Saigon (Heath) to the Department of State
priority
91. Repeated Paris 31, Phnom Penh unnumbered, Hanoi unnumbered. Deptel 84, July 13 very helpful this Embassy in understanding situation. I thoroughly agree that when time comes we may wish discreetly to employ our influence to see that the Vietnamese do not take positions which will contribute to further weakening the French will to continue the fight and, when peace is restored, to protect Vietnam. In fact I think the time has now come to exert such influence not [only] vis-à-vis Vietnamese Government but also vis-à-vis the Cambodian Government.
[Page 680]Perhaps the most constructive position which we can take is to convince the Vietnamese and Cambodians that in their vital self-interest they must take realistic view that they may have to make promptly certain concessions in substance or form in order to insure continuance of French effort in their behalf. We must also make it clear to them that they cannot expect the US to take on those responsibilities now borne by France. On the other hand, our influence must be exerted to keep the French from haggling over details. The French have made a broad generous offer. I fear, though, that in actual negotiations which in part will be conducted or prepared by French civil and military officials, spirit of petty bargaining may unfortunately come to the fore.
I hope to see Penn Nouth in next day or two and possibly arising from this talk, the King may wish to receive me. I will be in touch with Tam and hope to see Bao Dai in a few days. May I have Department’s instructions soonest?