893.00/4248: Telegram

The Minister in China ( Schurman ) to the Secretary of State

87. Peking Government has for the time being virtually ceased to function; Premier is still in Tientsin, his position unchanged. The [Page 689] Minister of Communications is in Tientsin or Mukden plotting in Fengtien-Chihli dispute. Minister of Education refused to assume that office on account of financial difficulties of his Ministry. Minister of War is at Mukden intriguing for the support of Chang Tso-lin to secure Premiership; Minister and Vice Minister of Finance have tendered resignations and gone to Tientsin, and Ministry of Finance is practically non-operative. See my 86, March 8, 1 p.m.21

Schurman
  1. Not printed.