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~F ~C:CRE i probability that Castro had altered the essentially radical course of his revolu- tion. From his experience here, he has gained a valuable knowledge of American public reaction which may make him a more difficult man to deal with on his return to Cuba. It would be a serious mistake to underestimate this man. with all his appearance of naivet~, unsophistication, and ignorance on many matters, he is clearly a strong personality and a born leader of great personal courage and conviction. WWUe we certainly know him better than before, Castro remains an enigma; and we should await his decisions on specific matters before assuming a more optimistic view than heretofore about the possibility of developing a constuctive relationship with him. and his government. 35/ With the benefit of hindsight, it seems that in this period shortly following Castro's visit to the United states the cos Havana may have misjudged a significant development which surfaced almostimme- diately after Castro's return to Cuba. Remarking on an apparent rash of anti-Communist statements appear- ing in the Cuban press, one dispatch speculated that: These demonstrations obviously welcome, but possibly most significant aspect is demonstration once again, enormous power Castro, who with few words made anti- Communism popular position. By same token he could reverse trend at any time, and skeptics speculating that current stand is sop intended to make it more difficult for u.s. interests ~o protest ~ effectively against stringent agrarian reform law. 36/ - 21 - TOD QRaD ex