if he was aware of the fact that there was a Japanese newspaper reporter
travelling aboard one of the vessels.
He stated that he did not know
this individual's name, but that, some five weeks prior, the local communications people had been advised of this person's impending arrival
at Rabaul,
They were requested to extend courtesies, including accept-
ance of collect messages.
Mr. Smiles informed us that this Japanese
reporter had been filing dispatches.
In response to a direct question
from Mr. Sniles as to how long we would remain in Rabaul, Colonel
lechausse advised him of our early morning departure time.
This resulted
in the not unanticipated question as to our findings and opinions.
In
the presence of Dr. Haszler, Colonel Isechausse advised Mr. Sniles to
the following effect, although the words may not be an exact quote,
"For obvious reasons, I am not in a position to make a formal statement.
However, we feel that our results confirm, in general, those of Doctor
Haszler and the local authorities.
We have had a very pleasant stay in
Rabaul and wish it were possible to stay longer."
He then asked whether
there was any danger on the ships or their presence in Rabaul.
Iechausse replied, "No",
Colonel
later that evening, while we were at a Chinese
restaurant, Mr. Sniles located us and delivered the clipping from the
Sydney newspaper, without conversation.
Cc.
DEPARTURE FROM RABAUL and Return to Eniwetok
28 July
1958,
Monday:
0445
Team and aircraft crew members assembled at breakfast at hotel.
0515
Baggage loaded; team and crew proceeded to air-strip.
Met by
Mr. Foldi and Dr. Haszler and Mr. Gus Smiles.
17
rear
ae
PS we
(gg
.7
®
ROE ARC I3
CONFIDENTIAL
©
ly