893.20/12–1649: Telegram
The Consul at Taipei (Edgar) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 16—6:50 a. m.]
839. At his request called yesterday on General Sun Li-jen who asked if any word yet on request for military advisers. I replied no and stated I and Attachés could see no evidence of Chinese efforts toward military reorganization. Sun begged that some move be made by US. He had 1 hour’s conference with Generalissimo previous day and spoke frankly of need for military reorganization and simplification. Generalissimo appeared definitely influenced by Sun, has no Chinese Generals willing or able “or with sufficient military strength” to reinforce his appeal but believes that time is ripe for American intimation of need for change, “Otherwise old generals will continue control policy”. K. C. Wu has been told by General to keep out of military affairs.
Sun had talked with Wu and felt encouraged on civil score but urged US approach to Generalissimo or military without which no possibility civil success. Also requested military aid step by step where conditions were best. Believes military can hold alone for 6 months but plan should be made now for next period and must include outside aid.
I reiterated that US would probably make no positive move prior to evidence of Chinese willingness to face facts and reform in accordance with realities of current desperate situation. Sun asked me at departure, please do my best explain situation to Washington.