894A.20/5–949: Telegram
The Consul at Taipei (Edgar) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 18—4:26 a. m.]
172. Despite series conferences with Governor Chen and military commanders here, Sun Li-jen says he has not resolved most important problems, not even touched on control of air force or navy. Has obtained increase of army pay and ration allowance as well as promise of order appointing him Commander-in-Chief of ground forces in Taiwan but considers latter sop with no value since Governor has independently installed General Li Chen-cheng in Pescadores and plans not [Page 335] incorporate Shanghai forces retreating here in Sun command. Garrison forces also separate.
Citing fact all US military aid continues custody independent Chinese service forces, although Sun has need for training and arming for battle, he asked if US could control delivery for his benefit (has asked Assistant Military Attaché here same question). I said I thought not in view Congress terms.
Sun claims Taiwan will be lost like China as result internal fights, lack organization, not external enemy. Says no serious plans being made coordinate military or civil operations and hour is late. Criticized Chinese claiming to be Taiwanese particulary notorious C. C. Huang, head of PPC whom Governor took to Canton (additional to my Department 125,55 Nanking 121, Canton 15). Repeated his belief in need separation military and civil to save island. Said two good well-armed armies sufficient for defense but Taiwan will probably have four poor ones instead, including Li Chen-cheng’s in Pescadores.
Repeated Canton 37, Nanking 138.
- Not printed.↩