382. Telegram From the Department of State to the Secretary of State, at New Delhi1
Tedul 21. Eyes only. Further to my 3087 to Manila2 repeated to you as Tedul 20 I believe Ferguson may be pushing bases issue too hard in understandable effort settle question before he departs. Possibility successful negotiation seems increased, but further preliminary talks appear necessary before we ready for formal negotiation or for public exposition Philippine position by Magsaysay.
I suggest that if question arises while you are in Manila you assure Magsaysay we sympathetic his problem, intend give him complete satisfaction on title question, but cannot do so in advance formal negotiations. Suggest you add that, as so little time remains before Ferguson’s departure, we believe it best for both sides if public discussion bases issue be deferred until arrival new Ambassador, which we hope will be within reasonable time. I realize this may be disappointing to Ferguson, but believe we should not endanger success this negotiation, which seems to be on tracks for first time by attempting to negotiate this complex question within the brief time available before Ferguson’s departure.