893.24/1250a: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the Consul General at Rangoon ( Schnare )

10. From General Marshall2 for Lieutenant Colonel Adrian St. John.3

“The difficulties which have arisen in Rangoon over handling of defense aid equipment have apparently been caused by misunderstandings as to ownership but have nevertheless created some resentment. It is understood that materials on the SS Tulsa regarding which some difficulties arose have now been released to the Chinese and that similar cases will probably not recur. It is essential that your attitude reflect a desire to cooperate with all concerned but in no case except one of extreme emergency involving the safety of the equipment should you permit even a temporary diversion of defense aid materials destined for China without the prior and specific approval of the Generalissimo.4 It is most important to exercise incessant supervision to insure expeditious delivery to proper destination. General Magruder5 being informed of gist this message and is also being advised of the necessity of preventing public statements or attitude of any American mission member from offending the authorities of China or other associated powers. Acknowledge this message.”

Hull
  1. Gen. George C. Marshall, Chief of Staff, United States Army.
  2. Member of United States Military Mission to China.
  3. Generalissimo Chiang Kai-shek, President of the Chinese Executive Yuan (Premier) and Supreme Allied Commander in the China Theater.
  4. Brig. Gen. John A. Magruder, Chief of United States Military Mission to China.