Office of the Historian

794A.00/7–1750: Telegram

The Chargé in China (Strong) to the Secretary of State

confidential
Taipei, July 17, 1950—11 a. m.

68. Deptel 33, July 14. Brought up question of detained FLR leaders with K. C. Wu last evening and gave him summary of US attitude typewritten on sheets of scratch paper without date or signature to assure accurate understanding on his part.

Wu did not wish discuss matter further but said longest sentence was 12 years and others down to 4 or 5 years, with proviso for earlier release if behavior good. Said that he had advocated this against opposition.

Mistaking purpose of summary, Wu said he strongly advised that no such communication be sent to Chinese Government, that it was all right to give it to him but if sent to government there would certainly be misunderstanding in higher circles. He told me to tell the State Department not to send such a note to Foreign Office. I said that not intended send note, that summary intended merely for his personal information. Entire matter ended there without clarification on question of charges trial, conditions of detention, etc.

From his manner, almost of hostility, it was apparent Wu thought US “interest” had already gone far enough and caused him enough trouble, and that Generalissimo was incensed at signs of US “interference” in matter. In my opinion attitude stems from deep uncertainty over US intentions toward Generalissimo and Chinese Government, fear Formosans have gained ear of US, and feeling that Chinese Government must show Formosans who is boss.

At this stage, further approach on this matter alone might do more harm than good, unless strong position taken.1

Strong

  1. The Department of State sent the following reply in its telegram 44, July 18, to Taipei:

    “Urtel 68 July 17. Action taken by you pursuant Deptel 33 July 14 was in accordance Dept’s intention make informal representations K. C. Wu without formal intervention through FonOff. Purpose informal conversations re FLR leaders apparently served as Dept’s interest obviously known in high Chi Govt circles. Pls continue report developments as they become known.” (794A.00/7–1750)

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