893.002/12–1648: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Stuart) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 17—9:46 a. m.]
2543. Sun Fo tells us lie is still unable form Cabinet. He has asked Shao Li-tze, Chang Chih-chung, Wu Tieh-chen, Carsun Chang and Chen Li-fu to join in Cabinet but only latter has accepted. Others refuse on basis Sun Fo has no policy. This Sun Fo himself confirms indicating that Generalissimo insists retaining full powers his own hands with avowed intention of fighting unto death. Sun Fo said he had suggested Hu Shih as his Foreign Minister, but Generalissimo said he had other uses for Hu. Hu arrived Nanking last night at Generalissimo’s request and we anticipate Generalissimo will pressure him form resistance govt.
Both those who desire negotiated peace and those who seek other leadership to continue fight against communism appear paralyzed by refusal Generalissimo to retire in face almost universal loss of support. He seems incapable supplying leadership himself and unwilling trust others with authority. Many Chinese believe he is insistent his determination to continue against communism solely by his belief that sooner or later sufficient aid will be forthcoming from US to save him. They feel that if he became disillusioned on this point he would soon retire and let others take helm.
Should he give to Sun Fo authority Sun seeks, we could expect, we believe, early attempted cessation hostilities. Those desiring continuance struggle against Communists are unorganized and without leadership. Possibly Hu Shih could supply this. Nevertheless we incline to belief that removal Generalissimo at this time would almost inevitably result in coalition govt of some kind. A coalition in resistance to communism is still possible, but we believe highly unlikely.
In spite of previous policy statements US Govt, there exists befuddlement in Chinese public mind real intentions US and each is seeking attain his own aims by reading into what is coming to be called our “vacillating policy” explanations supporting his own interest.
We realize difficulty at this stage our enunciating US policy toward China yet we firmly believe our interests are suffering from lack of clarity in Chinese mind of our intentions. Respectful treatment of Mme. Chiang with the studied courtesy due a charming lady, the press conference of Hoffman in Shanghai, which has been interpreted as acceptance coalition, and the persistent unfounded rumors that American officials Nanking are advocating coalition all tend to muddy [Page 655] the waters and make difficult clarity of thinking or decisive action by Chinese who wish to continue resistance.