893.00/9–2346: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Stuart) to the Secretary of State
[Received September 25—12:14 p.m.]
1523. Nanking Communist spokesman Wang Ping-nan on September 22 informed United Press correspondent that General Chou En-lai has made “last request” to General Marshall for convening Three-Man Military Committee to bring about cessation of hostilities. Wang warned that failing acceptance of this, Communists will “take our own steps” but did not say what those steps would be. He further stated that if committee does not meet civil war will continue until one side or other is exhausted. He emphasized Communist refusal to join Five-Man Committee is caused by inability of this committee to discuss military matters. (This “last request” refers to a letter Chou En-lai addressed to General Marshall from Shanghai on September 21 in which he demanded convening Three-Man Committee and in final paragraph of letter stated that unless request were granted he would publish correspondence since June. Letter is couched in such terms as to make it impossible for General Marshall to accede to Communists’ demands.)