Kissinger: The President made that point and Stennis seemed to support it.
President: Yes, he asked for a sort of interdepartmental group to manage the MAP. We sort of have an obligation to do it.
Martin: I have a suggestion -- what about General Adderholt?
Kissinger: Stennis had in mind a Presidential emissary to go out and inspect.
President: Yes, if we send someone we will get Stennis behind us.
Martin: There is no way we can lose Vietnam except throw it away here.
Kissinger: Tell the President about the accounting system.
Martin: They have taken the "sense" of the Congress as in the new bill. If the Pentagon could be instructed to charge only what is legally required, we would be much better off.
Kissinger: I agree with Graham. Vietnam is enormously important in the international perception of the United States.
Martin: If I thought it was hopeless, I would tell you. We can make it. But if North Vietnam sees the loosening of support it will change their perceptions. There will be no peace for a long time, but someday they can accommodate to each other.
President: The trouble is that your story doesn't get broad enough exposure, and the opposition is at it every day.
Martin: Doug Pike has done a study on the "anatomy of deception." You should use him. We aren't giving our friends ammunition to defend against Abzug and the others.
President: Please tell President Thieu of my admiration.
Martin: Can I tell Thieu you will fight for what is needed?
President: You surely can. That was my pitch yesterday and I was amazed at the reaction.
SECRET/NODIS
