Closing Time

In case any doubt remained that the withdrawal of U.S. forces from South Viet Nam is irrevocable, the mayor of Saigon provided convincing new evidence last week. He announced that by June 30 all "hostess bars" that cater to American G.I.s and civilians must move to the 9th precinct, on the far side of the Saigon River opposite the downtown area. The deadline may be the best indication yet by an official as to when withdrawal of U.S. combat troops will be completed.

At the high point of the American presence, downtown Saigon and Cholon, the Chinese section of the city, were jammed with sleazy bars in which a soldier could get a drink and drop a huge wad of piastres buying "Saigon tea" for the persuasive and elusive hostesses. The new location could make life somewhat complicated for the 25,000 to 30,000 American troops expected to remain in South Viet Nam in an advisory and logistical role. The only direct way to get to the 9th precinct is by boat.

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