:46:21
The United States today
detonated a nuclear device
:46:23
above Junston Island
in the central Pacific.
:46:26
The explosion was the second
successful American test
:46:28
in the upper atmosphere
in six attempts this year.
:46:47
The fifth day of the Missiles of October.
:46:57
I talked with Kennedy in Washington
for over two hours.
:47:01
I can't dismiss the possibility
he knew about the situation in Cuba.
:47:06
That was your dominant impression?
:47:09
Is possible.
:47:11
So, why haven't we heard
his righteous American indignation?
:47:13
Well, perhaps for the element
of surprise.
:47:15
There's another possibility.
:47:17
He may be withholding the bad news
:47:19
until after the American election,
:47:22
like a bride concealing her blemish
until after the ceremony.
:47:26
In Vienna, I feel sorry for Kennedy,
:47:29
he so desperately wanted a triumph.
:47:31
All right, let me hear
that conversation again in detail.
:47:35
Mr. President,
would you prefer that each of us
:47:37
write down our recommendation?
:47:39
No.
:47:40
There isn't any clear cut answer here.
:47:42
I don't want people saying later
:47:44
that their plans would have worked.
:47:47
Perhaps those of you
whose proposals aren't adopted
:47:49
may yet prove to be the lucky ones.
:47:52
Les begin.
:47:53
Secretary Rusk?
:47:54
I favor the blockade, Mr. President.
:47:57
Secretary McNamara?
:47:58
Blockade, Mr. President.