893.00/13751: Telegram
The Counselor of Embassy in China (Lockhart) to the Secretary of State
601. Embassy’s 586, December 4, 1. p.m.84 Today’s Chinese press reports the capture by Suiyuan forces of Tamiao (Sharramuren), an important point of strategic importance northeast of Pailingmiao. A foreigner upon whom great reliance can be placed has returned from Suiyuan and states that Tamiao was the first objective of the Suiyuan forces in their countermovement against Chahar, and that the present plans of the regulars envisage the capture of Shangtu and Chapatante. He states that three Nanking divisions are on the line from Pingtichuan to Tatung, but says no Government planes are at the front. The regular forces have suffered somewhat from bombing attacks in which, according to chairman Fu Tso Yi, 20 and 60 pound bombs were commonly used. This informant stated that some of Wang Ying’s subordinates have apparently been bought over to the Government side, and that in view of the adverse weather conditions and other factors, it is difficult to conceive of any important Manchukuo supported countermove before spring.
A Chinese official in conversation stated yesterday that there is in fact an oral agreement, such as is mentioned in Nanking’s 342, December 4, 1 p.m.84 He gave it as his opinion that it was concluded about June 1935 while Ho Ying Chin was still in Peiping and that it provided for the effective extension of the demilitarized zone to include the six districts of Southeast Chahar.
He stated in addition that Sung Che Yuan, under orders from Chiang Kai Shek, has moved two divisions to be ready to enter Chahar [Page 410] in a flanking movement should reenforcements be sent from Jehol to meet a Chinese thrust into Chahar, which he also forecasts.
By mail to Tokyo.