893.00/12–1247: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Stuart) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 12—8:38 a.m.]
2389. I have been discussing military command situation in Government circles and believe following represents the picture in respect to Chen Cheng.
Problem of Chen’s illness is complicated by political and military considerations. He wishes to leave Manchuria but if he should return to Nanking as Chief of Staff it would embarrass Pai Chung-hsi who is at last having the opportunity to carry out his own strategy against Communists in Yangtze River provinces. Pai stresses recruitment and use of local populations, whereas Chen places greatest emphasis on professional soldiers.
If impossible come Nanking, Chen would like to be in Peiping but here again there is danger of tension between him and new functions of Fu Tso-yi in that area.
Chen is a man of highest integrity and a strict disciplinarian but is unpopular with field commanders because of what they claim to be his rigid and narrow ideas as to military operations. Lo Cho-ying, a former subordinate of his, was assigned to Manchuria at Chen’s specific request, his belief being that he could leave Lo in charge, Chen’s organization being adequate to prevent Lo from grafting. He is said to have high regard for Lo’s ability as field officer.
The Generalissimo is aware of these issues and is determined to keep Chen in Manchuria. Generalissimo I understand plans early trip to Manchuria in this regard.
[Page 403]Clark when recently visiting Manchuria found Chen in bed a really sick man (perforated ulcers) and gathered distinct impression it would be long time before Chen could assume active field command.
Sent Department as 2389, Mukden 158, Peiping 289, Tientsin 181, December 12.