Marshall Mission Files, Lot 54–D270: Telegram
Colonel Marshall S. Carter to General Marshall
91312. Your 88762 refers. On 12 June China Theater’s 0316363 (repeated to Nanking) pointed out that troop movements to Manchuria were nearly complete, and requested that the vessels be used to support Chinese economy when and as they are available. No urgency of transfer to Chinese Flag was indicated. Your 887 of 13 June indicates urgency of transfer. Dr. S. C. Wang of Chinese Supply Commission has just told me by phone that he had received a message from China directing him to do everything possible to have the ships transferred to Chinese Flag by 20 June. This date has no significance with respect to the Lend-Lease Act or Ship Sales Act, or any other economic considerations of which I am aware.
The ships cannot be transferred to Chinese Flag under the Ship Sales Act until 23 July at the earliest, although other means of accomplishing this transfer are still being investigated. No particular difficulty is anticipated in complying with China Theater’s request as contained in 03163.
[Page 796]The action indicated in your 887 is the one I am trying to negotiate. However, the Chinese message indicated above has a significance that I feel merits your attention.