893.00/5–2748: Telegram
The Consul General at Mukden (Ward) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 28—3:41 a. m.]
232. Rumors current that Chinese Communists have proclaimed independent govt for North China with capital in Shensi Province indicate if true that Moscow-oriented elements among Chinese Communists now wield dominant power over China-oriented elements in that former have allegedly favored regional govts (which in case Manchuria, [Page 260] Sinkiang, and other northern border regions would prove beneficial to Soviet Union) whereas latter favored all-China Communist Govt. If above rumor correct, it probably explains sudden unexpected and vigorous Communist drive on Changchun now under way since it likely proclamation independent Manchurian Govt in offing but such proclamation will be withheld until Communists in possession one of Manchurian traditional capitals (Mukden and Changchun). Mukden today believed practically impregnable, whereas isolated war-weary garrison at Changchun may choose surrender rather than resolute defense if grossly outnumbered.
Pass Nanking 203.