893.00/12–2047: Telegram
The Consul General at Mukden (Ward) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 21—4:17 a.m.]
394. Communists adopting new tactics Mukden area. Infiltrating Government outer defense lines with small groups attacking towns, holding until counter-attacked and then abandoning positions. These tactics have succeeded causing constant shifting Government troops, anxiety Mukden civilian population, continued disruption economy and blockade foodstuff to Mukden. Government tactics are to withdraw into outer defense perimeter circle approximately 30 miles around Mukden and counter-attack Communist infiltrations. Communists captured Hsinlungtien, 20 miles west Mukden. Government counter-attacked and recaptured December 19. Communists attacked [Page 412] Suchiatun and Hsoho, 15 miles south Mukden, on Mukden–Dairen rail line December 20. Rail traffic terminates Suchiatun. Government abandoned Chungku and [apparent garble] on Mukden–Changchun rail line, 30 miles north Mukden. Heavy fighting at Hsinlitun on Fuhsin rail line.
Rail line open Mukden-Chinchow with exception bridge over Taling Ho. Communists captured, destroyed machinery and then abandoned Yentai coal mine. Government alleges Penhsi coal mine still held by them. Communists recaptured Haicheng, south Anshan, and are moving in force southward towards Tashinchiao.
Communists now have 11 columns instead of 9 as at end fifth offensive. Rumors emanating from PNEH indicate Government may abandon NE. Although Cheng Tung-kuo, Chief State [of Staff] PNEH, denies Government will withdraw Changchun and Kirin, information today from men [man?] verified usually reliable source states Communist offered allow Government withdraw forces Changchun and Kirin and Government has accepted offer.
Sent Embassy (please inform Clark), repeated Department as 394, Changchun 380, Peiping 102.