264. Telegram From the Embassy in Korea to the Department of State0
321. I saw President Rhee yesterday to say goodbye and in response his indication few days ago that he wanted to talk with me. Conversation was friendly except for one moment when I questioned his assertion Democratic Party was, in effect, Communist organization.
President Rhee, while declaring his attachment to democratic principles, said twice during conversation that in struggle against Communist infiltration and subversion, some departure from democratic processes would be necessary. He assured me he welcomed my comment and advice, but when I urged again that effort be made to restore normal working relationship between parties, came up with argument re Communist character of DP. In reply my statement to contrary, he implied that if my advice were based on this premise, he would have to disregard it.
Meeting ended with President urging me to return soon.
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 795B.00/1–1659. Secret.↩