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  4. Document 592

893.00/12–3148: Telegram

The Consul General at Hong Kong (Hopper) to the Secretary of State

Hong Kong, December 31, 1948—11 a. m.
[Received January 1, 1949—8:25 a. m.]

Controlled American source today learned from reliable source Marshal Li Chi-shen departed Hong Kong for Communist areas probably by Soviet ship Aldan Dec. 27, ostensibly for Vladivostok. Reliable Sino source today confirmed departure Marshal Li for North China about December 25.

Yesterday for first time C. Y. Li said Marshal Li definitely would go North China “possibly in near future”.

Departure Marshal Li of greatest significance any move dissident circles Hong Kong, and suggests PCC imminent and abandonment by Li any plans he may have considered for independent action South China.

Sent Nanking 217, repeated Peiping, Department.

Hopper