893.20/761: Telegram

The Ambassador in China (Gauss) to the Secretary of State

1070. Reference my 1005, September 5, 9 a.m. Although it is probable that the Communist problem was discussed at military conference convened by Generalissimo at Sian, there was no Communist representative present due to tardiness in issuance of invitation and unfavorable travel conditions which did not permit the representative appointed, General Lin Piao, to arrive at Sian until after the departure of Generalissimo. General Lin is prepared to come on to Chungking for conference if Generalissimo so requests. Communist representative at Chungking anticipates that neither general settlement nor conflict will develop from present Kuomintang–Communist situation.

Gauss