751G.13/9–2354: Telegram
The Ambassador in Vietnam (Heath) to the Department of State
niact
1176. Repeated information Paris niact 408. Following is translation of pertinent excerpts from telegram from Bao Dai to Diem received just before noon here today:
“In the circumstances, et cetera His Majesty with aim of restoring to you all initiative with regard to him has directed me to inform you ‘that he would be willing voluntarily to relieve you if that is your desire from the oath of fidelity and continuity which you spontaneously gave him’. His Majesty hopes that this new attitude in regard to him, et cetera may facilitate your decision in case you judge it necessary to free yourself from your heavy burden in face of a situation whose complexity you are perfectly qualified to appreciate.”
In other words, Diem is politely asked to resign. Diem interprets this reference to oath from which Bao Dai frees him as that taken by latter to preserve monarchy. It may, however, be simply his oath of office as Prime Minister.
Diem is wiring back that His Majesty is badly informed regarding “complexity of situation”; that he is on eve of announcing reorganization of his government with participation of sects and outstanding nationalists. He is further stating it is his understanding this reorganized government will have support of US and latter would not support regime which came into power by force.
I again urgently recommend that Paris should immediately say to Bao Dai that he should refrain from or at least postpone his insistence on Diem’s resignation at this moment when latter is on point of forming government supported by sects. There is really no time to lose.