894A.01/5–1049: Telegram
The Consul at Taipei (Edgar) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 10—7:16 a. m.]
152. By series well-spaced moves Governor Chen has now quietly but completely placed yes men in strategic policy and operating positions. His extra-official brain trust continues and increases not unnoticed. General overall character is military, reactionary, unpopular.
Am hearing much conversational personal criticism of regime by people and officials including some Chen civilian appointees decrying excessive conferences, “repetitious pointless speeches”, tendency toward solution by military order, tardy break from mainland. Governor’s recent speeches down island emphasizing his full authority and threatening punishment to inefficient, indicate dissatisfaction success his efforts and may presage more general military replacements.
Concurrently and despite Governor’s public statement, “all troops loyal and isle safe”, much feeling official and private that developments mainland plus type troops increasing here raise serious loyalty question [Page 331] and irritate natives. Air Force generally reported unwilling fight Communist mainland and even likely defect. Foreign community uneasy, some Americans making inquiries Consulate General. Believe danger not imminent but very real.
Sent Department 152, repeated Canton 28, Shanghai 120.