751G.00/9–1454: Telegram
The Ambassador in Vietnam (Heath) to the Department of State
1007. Repeated information Paris 339. Diem’s state dinner last night in honor General Ely in Norodom Palace, now rechristened Independence Palace, was historic and rather dramatic affair. It was Diem Government’s first state dinner after more than two months in office, previous dinner for General Ely having been cancelled. Dramatic element was furnished by appearance of General Hinh who circulated among 150 guests with tolerable imitation of ease and confidence.
President had sent for him at six o’clock, urged him to attend dinner, and reluctantly consented to Hinh postponing his departure for few days. (Comment: I thoroughly agree with President’s reluctance. Diem cannot move ahead with reconstitution of his Government until Hinh is out of picture. We have some fear that Hinh may try to postpone his departure for week or so hoping that tide will turn in his favor. If he does so, then all available influence should be brought to bear on him. While Diem says with some truth that he is not vindictive, he is more furious and distrustful of Hinh’s sincerity than ever. He told me so last night.)
Dinner was well arranged and went off pleasantly but there was no oratory wasted. Diem merely formally toasted Coty as President of France and of French Union. Ely replied with equal brevity toasting Bao Dai.
Most of French guests looked unhappy. General Salan and Admiral Auboyneau were conspicuous by their absence.