893.00/1–2445: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Hurley) to the Secretary of State
[Received January 24—9:45 a.m.]
107. President has advised me that you have read my telegram to him dated 14 January. Since the negotiations between the National Government and the Communists were terminated, I have continued communications with Mao Tze-tung, Chairman of the Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Party. On January 20, 1 wrote him, with the knowledge and approval of the Generalissimo and General Wedemeyer, telling him of fundamental changes that are contemplated in the National Government. Among other things in that letter 1 said to Mao Tze-tung:
“It may well be that this measure together with the other measures that have been offered by the National Government may not be sufficient to satisfy the Chinese Communists but I think it would be a great pity if such far reaching Government proposals were rejected out of hand without due consideration.
As a friend of China I suggest that you send General Chou En-lai or any other representative you may select to Chungking for a brief visit to talk matters over with the Government. It need not take him long; if he is busy, 2 or 3 days would be sufficient.”
On 23 January I received the following telegram from Mao Tze-tung:
(Paraphrase) “Received your kind letter. Being sent to Chungking is General Chou to negotiate with Government. Eleven o’clock Wednesday 24 January ’45 expected time of departure. Trust you are in good health.”
This seems to indicate that after 6 weeks of effort we have succeeded in reopening negotiations. Do not expect too much. We will do our best. I will keep you advised of progress. Please inform the President.