893.00/3–949: Telegram
The Consul at Taipei (Edgar) to the Secretary of State
[Received 11:46 p. m].
61. From Merchant. To me prime need is for governor who is honest, liberal, effective and not so bound to Generalissimo as to permit move by latter to Formosa for last ditch fight if Li negotiates mainland peace nor so blind to China’s interests as to deliver island to coalition government under any mainland peace terms.
I agree your doubts Sun but he meets foregoing requirements on all points save administration experience which he is understood willing to supplement by qualified advisers. Moreover Sun personally controls troops and probably risks less sabotage than any other Chen successor by reason his established position on island.
In any event I undertand Li has already told Ambassador he intends appoint Sun governor. If Ambassador fails enthuse, Li may infer too much and look elsewhere. Meanwhile Chen by appointment is personally digging in. Accordingly I continue recommend discreet encouragement by Ambassador choice Sun and no approach to Chen unless it [Page 299] develops we must deal with him, uncertain quantity though hope. [Merchant.]