751G.11/2–2654: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Embassy at Saigon1
1552. Concern is mounting here at Bao Dai’s continued failure to take active role in leadership his embattled people. Department fully appreciates efforts which have been made by you and by French to remedy situation which remains one of serious weaknesses our side in struggle.
While Department assumes Bao Dai’s attitude due in part his concept traditional imperial role and in part his analysis politico-military situation and prospects, state of his health may also be contributing factor. Department understands he suffers from chronic malaria and liver condition which while not sufficiently debilitating to restrict his sporting and social activities, may leave him with insufficient energies meet adequately the politico-military challenge inherent in his exalted station. Department is further aware Bao Dai’s earnest efforts secure best possible medical treatment both in Vietnam and in France. Unfortunately however it appears that treatment has been to date unsuccessful.
In your discretion you are authorized discuss with Bao Dai state of his health. If suitable opportunity presents itself, you may ask him whether he has ever considered possibility seeking treatment here where medical science has made such striking progress in treatment tropical diseases. If Bao Dai appears interested you may offer investigate possibility arranging for him to visit US unofficially for medical treatment, assuring him that facilities including transportation to US could be made available. In event of a positive expression of interest from Bao Dai, French (DeJean) should be immediately informed and given opportunity make any observations they may desire before any definite commitment is made to Bao Dai. Department assumes in any case Bao Dai would not wish to leave Vietnam until end current fighting season.2
- Drafted by Bonsal of PSA. Repeated for information to Paris as telegram 2968.↩
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In a letter of Mar. 1 to Ambassador Heath, Bonsal stated the following: “The telegram which you recently received about medical treatment for Bao Dai reflected the views of Admiral Radford and General Smith on this subject. We want to be very careful to avoid being put in a position which will embarrass or trouble our French friends.” (PSA files, lot 58 D 207, “Vietnam Correspondence”)
In telegram 1579 from Saigon, Mar. 3, Chargé McClintock expressed the following opinion: “I do not think that even American doctors will be able to change His Majesty’s character.” (751G.11/3–354)
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