751G.13/9–2154: Telegram
The Ambassador in Vietnam (Heath) to the Department of State
1143. Repeated information Paris 390. As Embassy had received report (Embtel 1125 repeated Paris 386)1 General Hinh preparing coup de force for today, Counselor Kidder was instructed call on Hinh in company General O’Daniel last night to make crystal clear fact that any use force against legal government would necessitate review of entire US policy towards remaining Vietnam. Point emphasized US desires do everything possible support remaining Vietnam, but only on condition country unified in face common danger.
Hinh protested strongly he had no intention use force either on his own behalf or on behalf anyone else against government. He reiterated he has no personal political ambition, that more than anything else he would be delighted if he could retire and go to Beaux Arts in Paris. However, he said his retiring would serve no useful purpose for country as present situation with inefficient government which must be replaced would be unchanged.
Balance of conversation was carried by General O’Daniel who once again attempted persuade Hinh that he should follow role proper to military and leave matters relating to civilian government to civilians.
Hinh’s view on this that situation so serious and pressure of army on him so strong that it too late. Nevertheless in reply to query re what type of government he would visualize to replace Diem, he stated evasively he a military man and that not his province.
Reply from Bao Dai to Hinh’s telegram (see Embtel 1107 repeated Paris 378)2 broadcast over local radio this morning is limited to innocuous statement appreciation Hinh’s expression esteem for His Majesty’s intention, in interest of National Army, look into problem posed by Hinh. Bao Dai’s message cannot be considered in any sense rebuke of Hinh.