893.154/373: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Gauss) to the Secretary of State
[Received August 31—10:41 a.m.]
372. Reference Department’s 205 of August 26, 6 p.m. In regard to the Burma Road. I saw the Generalissimo yesterday and made known Currie’s views and proposed arrangement regarding Wilson. He simply indicated assent, evidencing no disposition to discuss the matter. However, I anticipate that he may wish to do so later at which time I shall unless otherwise instructed tactfully explain that, while expert American technical advice and assistance will be made available in every practicable way, authority and responsibility with respect to the management and operation of the road ultimately and [properly] rest with China. I shall state that the measure in which lend-lease aid reaches China naturally depends upon the capacity of the road as a transport artery and express confidence in China’s ability to effect diplomatic immunities.
The Generalissimo at time was [obviously] preoccupied and anxious with regard to the American-Japanese conversations respecting the Far East and sought, with the Foreign Minister who was also present, to draw me into a discussion of that issue. The Foreign Minister referred to rather definite reports he had received from the Chinese Ambassador in Washington. The conversation was restrained. I was entirely without [official] advice on the subject and so informed them.88
- See telegram No. 209, September 2, 10 p.m., to the Ambassador in China, vol. iv, p. 419.↩