Office of the Historian

Marshall Mission Files, Lot 54–D270: Telegram

Colonel Marshall S. Carter to General Marshall

[Washington,] 17 June 1946.

91588. Your 91565 refers. Presidential approval has been obtained to “Transfer the vessel[s] under the Lend-Lease Act subject to an agreement by the Chinese to purchase them at the earliest possible moment permitted under the Ship Sales Act.” This will place ships under Chinese flag even though title cannot pass to Government of China until actual sale. Administrative directives to implement President’s action will follow tomorrow. Actual sale will be consummated as soon as possible but this may extend into July.

No other legal means exist, but believe this meets your desires. No action required at this time by Chinese Government, since Supply Commission has already placed order for sufficient ships to cover this item. Suggest no notification to Chinese until administrative directives arrive.

  1. Supra. ↩