LONDON
December 1, 1949
Dear Dean:
Just before Bevin went off to Eastbourne for his two or three weeks retirement and confinement, he talked to me very personally and quite unofficially about China and his Government's attitude toward recognition. He made it clear that his own mind had not come to rest on the matter, and anything that he said was in the nature of a premature preview of his thoughts. Obviously, therefore, anything he might say would not have the sanction of the Cabinet.
They were becoming increasingly worried about the effects of non- recognition, and although Bevin had not come to any clear decision, he felt that probably during the course of the next month or six weeks they would conclude to extend recognition to the Communist regime. He said he didn't know whether, should they reach this conclusion, recognition would be de facto or de jure.
In response to an inquiry from me, he said it would be perfectly all right to pass his general views on to you personally, but asked particularly that they not be given any circulation in the Department beyond yourself. He said that, of course, before any final conclusion or decision were taken, after his own mind had become a little clearer on the matter, he would formally consult with us.
It was so nice seeing you in Paris and in Frankfurt. Peg and I leave tonight on the "Queen Elizabeth." I am ducking into the hospital on the 10th, but hope to be in Washington on the 17th. At any rate I will call you on the phone when I arrive in New York.
When I see you I will tell you about Johnson's visit here. There were some rather amusing incidents. Jim Bruce spent the night with us. Louis came to dinner. We called on Attlee together and I saw a little of him the following day.
I do hope that Mary is getting along nicely and that Alice is enjoying to the full-without spoiling-your latest grandchild!
Ever,
The Honorable Dean Acheson, Secretary of State, Washington 25, D.C. USA