893.00/14286: Telegram
The Chargé in China (Peck) to the Secretary of State
[Received 10:45 a.m.]
613. The Embassy is reliably informed that Wang Ching Wei left Chungking for Yunnanfu December 19 and that he has since gone to Hanoi where he is remaining indefinitely. It is reported that his sudden and secret departure is attributable to a growing rift between him and H. H. Kung which is said to have originated at the Chungking session of the People’s Political Council during which Kung was roundly criticized. Kung is reported to believe that Wang Ching Wei is directly or indirectly responsible for the attacks launched upon him.
It is believed unlikely in local circles that Wang Ching Wei will return to Chungking so long as Kung who is reported to be unpopular in most official quarters remains in office. However, it is doubtful whether the Generalissimo can be prevailed upon to relieve Kung of his official duties particularly in view of family relationships and in the face of recent financial arrangements. There is no suggestion locally that Wang Ching Wei’s departure can be construed as indicative of a design to align himself with Japan or with puppet organizations.
Repeated to Peiping.