893.00/1–648: Telegram
The Consul General at Mukden (Ward) to the Secretary of State
[Received January 30—10:29 a. m.]
5. Increasing indication current Communist offensive not as successful as Communists planned and not as serious threat to Government as seemed early part offensive. Government troops fought with unusual vigor and spirit and Government commanders made few tactical errors. As result Communist casualties heavy north Mukden. Ssuping which was abandoned for time by Government later reoccupied [Page 9] [by?] two good Government units which now, in conjunction Government troops Tiehling area, have Communists eastward retreat potentially blocked. Communists have broken off engagement Hsinlitun, strategically located because possession by Communists could keep Mukden–Peiping rail communication broken indefinitely. Available reports indicate Communists sustained very heavy losses 10-day attempt take city. Government leaders not overly optimistic but think Communist reversal Hsinlitun may be second “Ssuping victory” which [was?] turning point Communist fifth offensive. Government troops now maneuvering for counteroffensive which if successful will either force Communists southwards to Chinchow area where they would be logistically weakened, or force them north or northwestwards where they would have to regroup entailing loss valuable time and perhaps precluding another large-scale offensive by them during cold months. Impossible foresee whether present vigor and spirit will continue [for?] Government troops and leaders, and if so whether Government will exploit opportunity and deal heavy blows over extended Communists.
Sent Embassy as 9, repeated Department 5, Changchun 7, Peiping 6, Tientsin 5.