Marshall Mission Files, Lot 54–D270: Telegram
Lieutenant General Alvan C. Gillem, Jr., to Mr. Walter S. Robertson, at Peiping
451. My 446 partially answers your 1467. I cannot give you the desired information at this time. Am pressing for resolution of this matter. National side changing members again due to illness of Gen. Chen Cheng. My hope is that we will be able to get both sides to agree that the cease fire order is applicable to Manchuria in principle and then negotiate on that basis regarding the difficult Manchurian situation. There was never any question in General Marshall’s mind that the order was applicable and I am using that as a basis of approach. However, if I am successful in getting order to apply to Manchuria, National side may insist that it apply as of the 10 January in accordance with its terms and insist that Communist forces be moved out. On the other hand the Communists will press for its application commencing as of this date and demand official recognition of all area now occupied by them. Will keep you advised.