893.00/13805: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Johnson) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 21—8:25 a.m.]
369. T. V. Soong has sent a holograph letter from Loyang to Young Marshal demanding that he release Generalissimo without delay. He enclosed editorial “Open Letter to Sian Troops” from Ta Kwng Pao, December 18, copies of which are also being scattered among Sian forces by airplane. Editorial contains following points:
1. Generalissimo should be escorted back, not merely allowed to escape from Chang; 2. He need not leave but may remain in Sian to direct national affairs from that place but this must be approved [Page 444] by him and concurred in by repentant mutineers in a circular telegram; 3. No guarantees other than integrity of Generalissimo and public opinion of nation should be sought for their pardon if they repent and their proposals will be adopted on his release if he deems them useful; 4. At request of Generalissimo punitive action is temporarily postponed so that they may prove their loyalty. Rebels are also reminded of folly of talk of national salvation when all Government and military machinery has been halted by their action.
Resumption of Government bombing air raids on December 20 has caused heavy losses and stopped rebel movements near Sian.
Sent to the Department; by mail to Peiping.