123 Henderson, Loy W.: Telegram
The Ambassador in India (Henderson) to the Secretary of State
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[Received October 6—10:03 a. m.]
842. 1. In my talk with Bajpai SYG MEA at noon I told him that we wished to explore every reasonable avenue which might have any possibility whatsoever of serving to prevent extension of hostilities in Korea. Department had asked whether Bajpai might consider it possible or helpful for me to have personal talk with Chinese Communist Ambassador for primary purpose of supplementing GOI so endeavor to persuade Peiping that US had no hostile designs against Communist China. I said I realized that Communist Chinese Ambassador was boycotting diplomatic representatives here of countries not in full diplomatic relations with Peiping. Nevertheless Communist Chinese Ambassador might be willing to talk with me or at least accept message from me if Peiping had sincere desire to prevent still further widening of breach which already exists and to get first hand information regarding US purposes in Korea.
2. Bajpai was clearly taken by surprise and said he would like to think matter over but his first impression was that such contact might be quite helpful. He would let me know as soon as possible what his more mature ideas were.
3. I said that we, of course, did not want him or any official of GOI to undertake anything in this direction which might be against his better judgment but in present dangerous situation we for our part did not believe in standing on formalities.
4. In view of Bajpai’s friendly attitude in this matter I do not intend to approach Swedish Minister until GOI has had opportunity either to make contact or to transmit message. If GOI refuses I believe it would be wiser to consult with Bajpai before approaching Swedish [Page 890] Minister in order that so far as GOI is concerned we shall be doing everything above board.1
- The Departments telegram 518, October 6, 8 p. m., to New Delhi read as follows: “Reurtel 841 and 842, Oct. 6. You are authorized to handle this matter in whatever manner you consider will be most expeditious and effective.” (795.00/10–650)↩