893.00/13787: Telegram
The Ambassador in Italy (Phillips) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 18—9:30 a.m.]
536. Count Ciano told me yesterday that in view of his long friendship with Chang Hsueh-liang he had sent him a personal message appealing to him to free Chiang Kai Shek. He allowed me to read this message which, though in friendly terms, was strong. He told me furthermore that the Italian Ambassador in China had been instructed officially to communicate a similar message to Chang Hsueh-liang which in part pointed out the risks of any cooperation with Moscow on Chang’s part.
[Page 433]Although Ciano did not indicate that he had any proof that Chang was acting under the influence of Moscow, the Minister said he was convinced of it. He also felt sure that Chang himself had been governed by his personal hatred of Chiang Kai Shek.
In the only press comment on the situation the Government spokesman in an editorial on December 17th indicates that Moscow had a hand in the capture and is covering up its own traces by accusing Japan of inspiring the revolt. He maintains that the policy of seeking an agreement between Japan and China is the only wise course for China.