893.00/13106
The Minister in China (Johnson) to the Secretary of State
[Received June 1.]
Sir: I have the honor to refer to the Legation’s despatch No. 3504 of April 12, 1935,27 regarding present political conditions in Sinkiang, and to enclose a copy of despatch No. 914 of April 24, 1935, from the Consulate General at Tientsin27 transmitting information concerning the same general subject. The despatch, besides offering further corroboration of the general impression that the Soviet-Russian political influence is on the ascendency in Sinkiang, includes interesting material as regards the increasing diversion of that province’s trade into strictly Russo-Sinkiang channels. It is not without interest to note that the rebel Ma Chung-ying is said to be now established in south Sinkiang with his Tungan followers, and that he is reported to be maintaining himself in a position of independence from the Tihwa regime, possibly with the support, it is alleged, of the British.
In this connection, it may be remarked that Sir Charles Bell, who is the author of several books on Tibet and for some time acted in the capacity of British political officer at Gartok, southwest Tibet, is now reported to be travelling extensively among the Mongols in the region west and southwest of Harbin, and that his later itinerary comprises a trip via Suiyuan to visit the Panchen Lama in Northwest China (possibly at Sining, Chinghai). It is not known what significance, if any, his peregrinations may have for political developments in Sinkiang and elsewhere in the Northwest.
Respectfully yours,
Counselor of Legation