Marshall Mission Files, Lot 54–D270: Telegram

General Marshall to President Truman 7

776. Dear Mr. President: Since my message of May 22nd, 740, and Generalissimo’s departure for Mukden, I have had continuous conferences with Chou En-lai. This noon I received letter from Generalissimo formally stating conditions he demanded for restoration of peace.8 In brief he demands execution of agreements for cessation of hostilities of January 10th which specifically relates to freedom of [Page 903] action of Government in taking over sovereignty in Manchuria, and agreement of February 25th for military demobilization and reorganization. He placed first importance on Communist demonstration of good faith by permitting Government agencies to restore communications in Northern China, and stipulated that in Executive Headquarters and teams, American member should cast deciding vote or make decisions in case of Communist–Central Government disagreement on action or interpretation of agreements. He also made a peculiar statement of query if I could guarantee Communist good faith in carrying out agreements. Chou En-lai discussed letter with me but was not in position to commit himself on certain points. He will give me a partial statement of agreements late tonight for transmission to Generalissimo at Mukden. Meanwhile, I have dispatched a message to Generalissimo requesting explanatory details regarding his general statements, proposing immediate movement of a section of Executive Headquarters to Changchun, and urging him to issue an order immediately directing cessation of attacks, pursuits or advances while details of truce are being arranged.9

I urged him to avoid painful results of previous Government error in forging ahead in Manchuria without granting permission for presence of teams to prevent unnecessary skirmishing and more recent similar unfortunate results of attitude of belligerent Communist generals at Changchun.

I also requested him to explain the meaning he gave to his use of the word “guarantee” in reference to me.

I will keep you advised from now on more closely on progress of events. I think any statement at this time would be premature.

  1. Copy delivered to the Secretary of State.
  2. See Madame Chiang’s letter No. 1, May 24, p. 891.
  3. Supra.