893.00/6–2647: Telegram
The Consul General at Mukden (Ward) to the Secretary of State
[Received June 26—12:30 a.m.]
110. Nationalist northward drive to relieve Ssupingkai progressing. About 20,000 Nationalist combat troops involved. Commonly believed drive will be successful.
Unless Communists change recent tactics it is believed they will permit northbound Nationalists’ column to extend itself without much resistance until column approaches Ssupingkai, where resistance will probably be stiffened sufficiently to cause Northeast Chinese Command to send reinforcements from Mukden area. If this materializes it can then be expected Communists will institute feint or actual drive on Fushun.
Absence any damage by Communists to industrial plants during recent occupation Penhsi probably indicates their confidence early permanent reoccupation. No known damage by Communists to plants Antung, which still in their hands. Rail traffic restored Mukden–Yingkow.