893.00/12–2948: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Stuart) to the Secretary of State
[Received 9:15 p. m.]
2643. I called on General Wu Te-chen, new Vice Premier and Acting Foreign Minister, yesterday morning. His concern briefly summed up is that Government has failed in its military action against Communists; that for first time new Cabinet has authority to decide such issues as peace or war; but that in announcement of readiness to consider “an honorable peace” there has been no response from Communists. He is, therefore, greatly puzzled as to what Communists want, and what American advice is.
I explained on this last that American hostility to communism and interest in welfare of China and her people were both unchanged but that it was inherently impossible for US to make any suggestions or promises that might influence solution of their present problems by Chinese themselves. I added that I had greatest admiration for resolute will-power of Generalissimo in fighting communism by military means, and that, whatever decision responsible leaders should make as to present crisis, I hoped they would all show that same resolute will in resisting the evils of communism by every available means. They ought not to think of situation as hopeless and irretrievable. They would probably have some very distasteful and even bitter experiences and outlook might seem very depressing, but more thorough cooperation among themselves and grim determination were called for. They should also win support of people in whatever course of action they undertook. I reminded him in leaving that US was watching with keenly solicitous interest and readiness to help in whatever ways might seem justifiable and effective when time came.
In course of conversation he raised question of the four other members of “Big Five” undertaking to mediate, and I explained difficulties. His mood is one of being quite aware of desperate military failure and on [of] bafflement over unresponsive attitude of Communists.
He apparently is unaware of negotiations in which Vice President has been involved (see Embtel 2544, December 16) or at least made no reference to them.
Sent Department; pouched Shanghai.