893.00/13963: Telegram
The Counselor of Embassy in China (Lockhart) to the Secretary of State
Peiping, February 4, 1937—4
p.m.
[Received February 4—7:30 a.m.]
[Received February 4—7:30 a.m.]
49. Reference paragraph 2 of Embassy’s telegram 34, January 22, 7 p.m.
- 1.
- According to reports published today in Peiping, disturbances occurred February 2 at Sian as the result of dissatisfaction on the part of subordinate military with the policies of Yang Hu Cheng and northeastern generals, especially with regard to withdrawal of troops northwards in compliance with desires of the National Government. It is said that Wang I Che, a northeastern general allegedly loyal to the Nanking Government, was killed, that other generals were put under surveillance, and that some clashes between opposing elements took place. According to the latest report, the situation has returned toward normal but continues tense.
- 2.
- Discord among the semiautonomous forces in Shensi might be expected to weaken them vis-à-vis the National Government and to render more likely an eventual solution of the Shensi situation favorable to the Government.
By mail to Tokyo.
Lockhart