893.00/11–1748: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Stuart) to the Secretary of State
[Received 11:02 p. m.]
2241. In November 17 conference with Military Attaché and officer of Embassy, General Tang En-po, newly appointed commander Nanking–Shanghai area, General Tang said that he could not hope to defend area with presently available forces if Communists succeed mopping up Government forces engaged between Nanking and Hsu-chou. Said Communist attack against Hsuchou area weakening and Government not yet lost control situation there.
He was generally pessimistic over Government’s long term chances avert general military collapse and said Communists almost certainly unwilling accept armistice proposal at this point. Also stated that Government has lost confidence of people making adequate defense measures such as recruiting difficult. Concluded by saying that he would take measures insure safety foreign community in areas under his command.
Sent Department, pouched Shanghai, Canton.