740.0011 European War 1939/29511: Telegram
The Chargé in China (Atcheson) to the Secretary of State
[Received 5 p.m.]
760. Churchill’s address on May 19, before the Congress68 is characterized as “encouraging” by the Chinese press which has, of course, given it considerable prominence and comment. However, from remarks volunteered by Chinese officials in private conversation, it is apparent that the speech has failed to dissipate the cynicism with which British intentions and promises in regard to the question of the defeat of Japan seems generally to be viewed in official Chinese circles here. Unfortunately it does not appear likely that this attitude will alter materially until some concrete British military success against the Japanese demonstrates that the defeat of Japan at the earliest possible moment is a British objective for which, in due course, they will strive whole-heartedly and with every possible resource.
- Congressional Record, vol. 89, pt. 4, p. 4619.↩