893.001 Chiang Kai-shek/12–2748: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Stuart) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 28—8:30 p. m.]
2628. I have been informed by Vice President’s74 secretary, Kan Chieh-hou, that Gimo has expressed willingness to retire but is concerned about the fate of his soldiers and feels unable to step out of picture until some kind of provision has been made for their future. According to Kan, this decision was imparted to new Secretary General of Kmt, Wu Chung-hsin,75 who promptly informed Chang” Chih-chung, Chang Chun, and Wu Tieh-chen. These 3 in turn called upon the Vice President yesterday afternoon to discuss this new development with him. Following their conference, Li Tsung-jen went to see the Gimo where he was later joined by the other 3 plus Chen Li-fu. These 5 Government leaders stayed with the Gimo until 11:30 Sunday night. The result of their conference is not yet known.
While we are withholding comment pending further developments, this report was lent some credence by recent message from Pai Chung-hsi advising Gimo to retire. Implication was, according to this unconfirmed report, that Pai would withdraw his military support if his advice were not taken.