893.00/10–248: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Stuart) to the Secretary of State
[Received October 2—8:51 a. m.]
1819. Govt armies Tsinan, Deptel 1378,52a had bad morale and little or no will to fight. After start of battle there were large scale defections. This situation partly attributed to Govt policy committing its forces to purely passive and defensive roles. Troops stagnate behind fortifications and their reliability prejudiced by commercial and other fraternization with adjacent Communist areas.
Communist morale very high. They attacked in force and with great vigor. In accordance with carefully prepared and well implemented plan, bulk their armies were disposed north Lunghai railroad to prevent Govt forces along that line coming to relief of Tsinan.
Sent Dept 1819, pouched Tsingtao.