Your telegram 177. [1]

There have been for a long time rumours, as in the British report,
of a Republican split. They usually feature the Sultan in an
ambitious and extremist role of plotting to overthrow either
Sukarno or Hatta or both. It is interesting that B.F.O. Delegates
returned from the Netherlands with such stories. The Sultan's rise
to Nationalist leadership has been most disappointing to the Dutch
and his independent position will be unwelcome to them next year.

2. All my information indicates British report to be inaccurate.

Though neither Sukarno, the Sultan nor TNI are altogether
satisfied with R.T.C. results, all are loyally supporting Hatta.

Sudirman and TNI are solidly behind the Sultan. Sudirman's
position is perhaps potentially extremist in that he is said to
oppose any other [than the] [2] Sultan as R.I.S. Defence Minister.

However, the Sultan at present seems certain of appointment.

Bambang Sugeng took over duties of Commander-in-Chief in mid
October but it is too early yet to say whether he will replace
Sudirman in R.I.S. Sudirman favours the Sultan also for this
position during transitional period. There is no suggestion of any
opposition to Sukarno from Governmental circles, such as might
lead to a 'split'.

3. Most important source of dissension at present is TNI
opposition to Sjahrir
as R.I.S. Foreign Minister. This opposition is also directed to
some extent towards the Sultan since he is inclined towards
Sjahrir as the man most likely to pursue an independent policy in
Foreign Affairs. However, it is still too early to estimate how
this situation will develop.

4. B.F.O. is to appoint its delegates to Preparatory Commission
today or tomorrow. There is no news of Republican delegates. In
the meantime we are trying to commence discussions on military
affairs, but the Dutch are proving quite unprepared for this.