Reagan Trades Pajamas for Suit, Holds Cabinet Session

President Reagan, grinning broadly and waving, walked to the Oval Office today for the first time since cancer surgery 12 days ago and sat down with his Cabinet for updates on the federal budget fight and other matters.

“I feel fine--great,” the 74-year-old President said as he walked along the Rose Garden colonnade from the mansion to the West Wing offices.

Reagan, who had worn pajamas and a robe during a midday meeting with congressional leaders on Wednesday, was dressed in a dark blue suit. “I dressed up for you. Don’t I get any credit for it?” he joked to reporters.

Voice Sounds Strong

His voice sounded strong, in contrast to the raspiness that was evident when he delivered his weekly radio address last Saturday. “The longer I get away from that tube that was down my throat, the better it will get,” he said.

For several days after surgery, Reagan had a tube running through his nose to his stomach to remove gas and fluids while his digestive processes were interrupted.

The President spent about 45 minutes with the Cabinet and then worked for nearly an hour in the Oval Office, White House spokesman Larry Speakes said. Reagan shook hands with the Cabinet officers as he entered the room, Speakes said.

Spotlight on Him

Treasury Secretary James A. Baker III and White House chief of staff Donald T. Regan escorted Reagan to the door leading to the colonnade but stopped to let him walk alone in front of a battery of television cameras to his office. Secret Service agents who shadow the President did not walk with him--apparently to keep the spotlight only on him.

Reagan declined to answer questions on U.S. policy toward South Africa or on the congressional struggle over the budget.

He spent only a few minutes in the Oval Office before stepping to the adjacent Cabinet Room. He took his usual seat at the center of the table, his back to the Rose Garden.

Speakes said the agenda for the Cabinet meeting included briefings on the visit by Chinese President Li Xiannian, the budget, Reagan’s tax-overhaul plan, a farm bill and action taken by the Justice Department relating to the recent TWA jetliner hijacking.