File No. 893.01/105
[Untitled]
Peking, May 13, 1916, 4 p.m.
A conference of representatives of governors of the seventeen loyal provinces is called to meet Nanking May 15 by arrangement between Feng and the Government leaders. The principal argument for consideration is the further continuance in office of Yuan. Events in Shantung and the lack of funds emphasize the necessity of definite understanding on the part of loyal provinces, either to give Yuan Government united and sufficient support or to displace Yuan and thus invite reunion with the South. In any event, personal power of Yuan is destroyed and he would be retained only as formal head.