893.00/6–2547: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Stuart) to the Secretary of State
[Received June 25—3:35 a.m.]
1392. The following is Changchun’s 263, June 23 to Embassy:
“Commander New First Army informed ESD on 21st that 53rd Army had arrived Manchuria as reinforcement and that there are 9 divisions in Tiehling area. Other units have been added to 38th Division moving southward and that column is said to total 20,000 troops (reference Consulate’s telegram June 21, 11 a.m.).
Police official informed me last night that relief column from north has already passed Kungchuling, that relief forces from south arrived at outskirts Ssuping and Generalissimo arrived Mukden. Sun Li-jen, [Page 199] vice commander NECC, by press report, arrived Changchun yesterday.
In these circumstances, where it appeared to me ‘obvious’ on Saturday that fall Ssuping imminent, would now revise estimate to be that town apparently been saved by arrival relief. Trend morning press supports beliefs situation Ssuping eased. Though uncertain whether any large Communist force could be caught, thereby relieving columns, even defensive victory would contribute substantial change to present military situation. Arrival Nationalist reinforcement in Manchuria is, of course, of prime importance. If cited official information correct, it would appear that Central News might in fact prove right about final Nationalist victory at Ssuping. Clubb”.