894A.00/3–649: Telegram
The Consul at Taipei (Edgar) to the Secretary of State
[Received 10:07 p. m.]
59. Butterworth from Merchant. Crux present situation is governorship. Chen Cheng lacks qualities provide liberal efficient administration needed. Moreover, as Gimo man he cannot be relied on to prevent or discourage continued influx least desireable mainlanders although mass migration now checked. Substitution Sun Li-jen by Acting President seems on balance solution best suited our interests.
Believe unwise approach Chen Cheng this time along lines Deptel 30 (decoding completed March 5). I concur recommendations paragraph 1, Taipei’s 51.95 Meanwhile, recommend Department instruct Ambassador encourage Acting President replace Chen Cheng soonest with Sun Li-jen. I plan return Nanking briefly this week.
Sent Shanghai, and Department. [Merchant.]