Marshall Mission Files, Lot 54–D270: Telegram
Mr. Walter S. Robertson to General Marshall
4738. Following is account of Shantung negotiations as reported by Colonel Ely1 who returned last night. General Clement sent staff officers to General Wang Yao Wu [as] National Government Commander at Tsinan and General Chen [Yi] as Communist Commander at Lin-I. Staff officers returned 27 June and reported both Commanders luke warm because of the fact that Shantung was only part of a much bigger picture. Neither would consider a meeting before 1 July.
Wang Yao Wu agreed to meet Clement at Tsinan on 30 June and Chen Yi at Tsinan on 1 July, if agreement appears possible. January, [respecting?] return of prisoners and arms captured since 13 January.
Chen Yi stated National issues, such as Coalition Government, would have to be settled before any real solution for Shantung province is possible. He agreed to ask Chou En Lai for authority to visit Clement after 30 June. Clement is visiting Chen Yi 29 June in order to complete arrangements.
Conditions set forth in Clement’s letter of invitation are:
- a.
- Preliminary individual meeting with Clement presenting minimum demands.
- b.
- Meeting between the two Commanders in Clement’s presence to reach broad agreement.
- c.
- Turn over negotiations to representatives of Executive Headquarters.
As you have been informed it is planned to send team 7 for this purpose.
Colonel Davis2 of Team 7 is flying to Tsingtao 29 June to act as General Clement’s adviser during initial conversation.