711.9327/11–1146: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Stuart) to the Secretary of State
[Received November 12—2:13 a.m.]
1856. There have been several causes making for delay in conclusion of the civil air transport agreement, of which the more important are the inclusion of Mukden, the Chinese desire for a loan to improve their civil air fields, and a behind the scenes struggle between the Minister of Communications46 and the head of the Chinese Air Force47 for control of civil aviation. (ReDeptel 1003, November 6, 7 p.m.) Following a talk with Dr. Soong, General Marshall has agreed on political grounds to the omission of Mukden from the agreement. A meeting with the concerned officials will take place on November 13, as a result of which it will transpire whether the Chinese interests concerned have in fact been pinned down to an accord.