715. Telegram 279 from Geneva1
279. From Johnson.
Wang (who was on same plane yesterday from Prague) called this morning asking next meeting be postponed to Saturday Sept 22. I implied that because previous engagements greatly preferred Friday, Sept 21. He replied Friday “impossible” for him whereupon I agreed to Saturday, Sept 22.
Do not know what this may presage but manner in which he has handled definitely indicates significant move being planned by Peiping of which he probably only informed after arrival here yesterday.
With reference third sub-paragraph beginning “observe that apparent” paragraph one Deptel 301, presume Dept recognizes that this will give Wang opportunity say that although our reasons differ we now [Typeset Page 1180] apparently agree his repeated contention further discussion renunciation force declaration fruitless. Together with our refusal discuss trade this could give them better basis from which to move toward recess or termination talks if this their desire.
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 611.93/9–1956. Confidential; Priority; Limit Distribution. Repeated to London for Secretary Dulles as telegram 21.↩