Foreign Relations of the United States, 1948, The Far East: China, Volume VII

893.00/12–1448: Telegram

The Consul General at Peiping (Clubb) to the Secretary of State

Peiping, December 14, 1948—6 p. m.
[Received December 15—12:41 a. m.]

539. Director Chin Feng-chuan [of] North Chinese Bandit Suppression Headquarters (see telegram 533, December 13) told me that Communists in east Hopei number about 250,000 troops plus 2 columns commanded by Li Yun-chang. These exclusive [of] local forces Nieh Jung-chen,¹⁴ Chin reported Lianghsiang and Fangshan southwest Tungchow, east Chingho and Shaho northwest still held, Peiping safe for present. He confirmed intentions defend Peiping but present problems were food supply and manpower.

Pessimistic view expressed regarding fighting Pengpu front.

Sent Department, repeated Nanking 796, Tientsin.

Clubb

14. Communist commander of the North China military area.