893.00/9–2548: Telegram

The Ambassador in China (Stuart) to the Secretary of State

1764. Government spokesman, otherwise unidentified to us, has informed American correspondent that Tsinan fell on night 23 September with no subsequent resistance. Wang Yao-wu was captured. Sino press was asked to keep news secret on grounds relief columns might still be able reach city.

According to local vernacular press, at 24 September session Legislative Yuan, General Ku Chu-tung35 assured legislators of Government determination hold Tsinan and that large force was proceeding to relieve city according to plan. Ho Ying-chin assured legislators of his personal responsibility in conduct military affairs. Both statements received with great approbation.

Precise nature repercussions on Government of loss Tsinan difficult foresee, but will certainly be serious, particularly since Government spokesmen announced to Legislative Yuan their determination hold Tsinan after city had fallen. Public confidence in Government ability survive, already sorely tried, must reach new low, and will almost certainly be felt immediately and severely in economic sphere. Also, since Hong Kong dissidents departed for Communist territory on or about 13 September, (Hong Kong 184 to Department,36) it appears likely Tsinan may be site new PCC,37 thus inaugurating new phase in Communist-Nationalist political conflict in which Communist Government [Page 474] appears representative of the factions and has greater claim to wider recognition.

Stuart
  1. Chief of Chinese General Staff.
  2. September 23, 3 p. m., not printed.
  3. Political Consultative Conference.