196. Telegram From the Embassy in Egypt to the Department of State 1
674. Suez from Henderson. Eyes only for Secretary. Menzies has been ill and for most part in bed for last two days. His illness has aggravated his disappointment at failure Mission which he undertook with optimism. Failure particularly painful to him since he has been under sharp criticism Australia for accepting Mission and has been hoping success would be best answer critics.
Although he restrained in his comments I understand he believes announcements from Washington greatly increased difficulties his Mission.2 His idea in accepting Mission apparently was that Nasser should be given understand that West would determine from his decision re proposals whether there any possibility cooperation with him in future. He sincerely believes, therefore, that announcements other proposals might be put forward if his Mission should fail seriously weakened Committees position and gave Nasser impression there was lack of unity among great Western powers. Although he was uncritical and friendly when I explained motivation these statements he nevertheless clearly continues to be deeply [Page 447] hurt. During recent years he has been one most loyal friends and best supporter of US among Commonwealth heads of government. It would be unfortunate if his friendliness should cool as result these developments. I hope, therefore, President or you can on appropriate occasion during next few days make public statement praising his devotion to world peace in accepting Mission and his manner conduct of Mission.3
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 974.7301/9–956. Secret. Received at 12:08 p.m.↩
- See Document 171.↩
-
In telegram 722 to Cairo, September 9, Dulles informed Henderson that his report “greatly distresses me” and asked that he deliver the following personal message to Menzies: “Dear Bob: I deeply appreciate the able way in which you have conducted the tremendously important task which you undertook for the 18 nations. Although the immediate result is negative, I am confident that your mission constituted a vital element in this unfolding drama of worldwide significance and that your part in it will prove historic. With best regards, Foster.” Dulles also told Henderson that he frankly did not understand the reference to “announcement that other proposals might be put forward if his mission should fail.” Dulles maintained that although alternatives to the use of force had been considered, he was “not conscious of any announcements of the kind you suggest.” (Ibid.)
On September 10, Dulles issued a statement extending “particular thanks” to Prime Minister Menzies. See The Suez Canal Problem, July 26–September 22, 1956, p. 327; or Department of State Bulletin, September 24, 1956, p. 469.
↩