795.00/6–2753: Telegram
The Assistant Secretary of State for Far Eastern Affairs (Robertson) to the Secretary of State
29. Personal for Secretary and Johnson from Robertson. Reference Embassy telegram 281 and Department telegram 19.2
Regarding mutual defense pact, word “guarantee” is inaccurate terminology. Rhee thoroughly understands that pact must be ratified by Senate. What he is asking is that negotiations begin immediately and not await signing of armistice.
Delighted to get Department telegram 19 before meeting this afternoon. Would appreciate immediate advice status Tasca’s economic recommendations.
Rhee’s violent and unequivocal statements make it extremely difficult for him to change front. As late as the day of our arrival he scorned acceptance of present armistice pact in an impassioned speech to gigantic war anniversary rally of some 500,000. Toward end of our private conversation late that same afternoon he said with considerable emotion, “you are like a hand extended to a drowning man. Please help us find a way out.” I am convinced he now seeks an out which will save his face and at same time will make reversal of his position seem logical to people. We should help him do so with such modification of details which will not compromise our position and which Clark considers possible of negotiation within framework of present pact without delaying or endangering Communists signature.
This is no time for table-pounding, name-calling, or threats. British and Allied castigations have caused deep bitterness. Americans friendly approach is apparently warmly appreciated.
In reading Secretary’s letter3 at meeting, Rhee’s voice at times quivered with emotion. At end he made no comment but it was obvious that letter’s devastating logic made profound impression upon him as well as upon the other Koreans present. Press has speculated that letter contained new proposals. It appears to suit Rhee’s face-saving strategy for Korean people to believe this to be true. I, therefore, strongly feel that publication at this time would be premature and would make Rhee’s reversing process more difficult.
[Page 1279]From conversations in Tokyo I am convinced that personal services of contemplated envoy should not be used except as last desperate resort and after concurrence by Clark. Such situation does not now exist. Press reports today that Rhee might be given opportunity to talk further with some other envoy at point outside Korea come at particularly inopportune time. We are emphasizing to Rhee that time is running out and that immediate decision by him is imperative. We believe he is on the point of a very reluctant but favorable decision unless we inadvertently furnish him with an excuse for further delay.
I had another long conversation after dinner last evening at which he again reiterated his earnest desire to cooperate with us.
We are resuming conversations this afternoon at 2:30 p.m.