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THE PRESIDENT HAS SEEN NEWS SUMMARY September 21, 1973 (Thurs. nets, wires. Comment separate) The major stories of the day: - "What appeared to be the last chance to avoid a showdown over a Constitutional question the US has dodged for 200 years evaporated, 11 led Cronkite on story led also on ABC/NBC: WH/Cox failed to reach out-of-court compromise on tapes. "The moment of compromise came and went, 11 began Chancellor, "w/the 2 sides still far apart." NBC's Stern suggested perhaps RN had told his lawyers to reinstate a tough stance and it was that possible intervention that may explain why "the avenues of compromise apparent Wed. disappeared Thurs. 11 As ABC/CBS noted, both Cox and WH made identical statement to court: "Sincere efforts [made at 3 meetings this week] weren't fruitful. 11 The memos were like a summit's joint communique, said Graham on CBS where he also saw RN case weakened w/Appeals decision likely w/in a week. Liddy, described as pale, thin and gaunt tho speaking in strong, clear voice, pleaded innocent -- and destitute in Ellsberg breakin. #2 story on all nets. He'll get a Public Defender. NBC/CBS film also noted JDE, Young, Krogh asked for dismissal of charges due to insufficient evidence -- routine motion, said Mackin. And Krogh's atty said tapes may be needed and he wouldn't exclude possibility of calling RN to testify. - WH was a bit more conciliatory toward VP, said NBC noting absolute denial that anyone w/RN authority or knowledge had said VP's resignation would be opportunity "to set a whole new tone. 11 But Rather reported a chief aide to RN, w/out authority of Pres, told a GOP leader that "VP is going to go" and RN has decided on a successor. Rather also said VP is convinced he's done nothing wrong and doesn't want to quit, but he may be willing to if RN wants him out and if he's insured he'll not face indictment or prosecution. AG said to be handling "highly complex and sensitive" negotiations on that matter Sevareid said the mind-reading by pols, press and public may be baffling but think of the "pure torture" it is for VP. Sevareid "implored" that the matter be moved along -- as well