123 [Merchant, Livingston T.]: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Consul at Taipei (Edgar)
87. For Merchant. Urtels 141 and 142 May 4 and 143 May 5. In light ur policy recommendations and estimate situation Dept desires you [Page 330] proceed Washington soonest for consultation. Authorization ur travel by air TO 9–15100 dated May 6. Dept asking Treasury recall Parker for similar consultation.
In view rapid developing situation Dept inclined to believe you should prior departure approach Gen Chen Cheng, or if you consider preferable K. C. Wu, along following lines: You are being recalled Washington for consultation but prior departure wish express concern possibility chaos from mainland spreading Taiwan, as previously indicated ur statement re influx further refugees. You being recalled Washington report situation Taiwan and possibility success Chinese efforts prevent Commie extension control over island either by infiltration or by direct attack.
Edgar should be fully acquainted with situation prior ur departure in order he may take action if necessitated by later developments during ur absence.