794A.00/7–2950: Telegram
The Ambassador in the United Kingdom (Douglas) to the Secretary of State
630. For the Secretary from Douglas.
1. Discussed with Bevin Deptel 522, July 28, in regard to desirability reaching common understanding with UK on Formosa. Discussion [Page 399] got no further than the benefits of having an understanding, for Bevin took the position that, while it was very necessary to arrive at an agreed position if possible, the discussion should be held preferably in Washington. The problem of Formosa, he said, was in a very real sense a problem of the Far East. The Eastern questions of policy were being discussed in Washington. Accordingly, he felt there might be some disadvantages in disassociating discussions on Formosa from the broad context in which they should be held.
I think his position is logical. Don’t you agree?
2. Bevin, who has just returned from his rest, seemed tired and mentally quite sluggish. There has been I think, deterioration even since I last saw him in the London clinic.
Sent Department 630, repeated info New Delhi 13 for the Ambassador.