Office of the Historian

702.0093/4–1949: Telegram

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

Peiping, April 19, 1949—11 a. m.
[Received April 19—4:15 a. m.]

654. ReDeptels 212 and 213, April 13 [15]. Return by local authorities Consul’s note without comment (Contel 646, April 1844) would seem outwardly constitute essential rejection at least temporarily Consul’s propositions. Matter will be analysed in separate message45 but for present purposes this can perhaps be taken as real position. Delay few days or week for reasons connected that démarche would therefore not seem warranted.

Would, however, recommend waiting approximately same period see what, if anything, comes of peace negotiations46 since this may affect overall situation in respect diplomatic and consular relations. Information obtained by Colonel Barrett47 indicates matters Communist attitude toward foreigners have been discussed in peace negotiations—though probably not as item major importance.

In meantime would appreciate being informed whether there has been any consultation or coordination with British or French regarding [Page 954] projected move.48 Respectfully invite attention Contel 488, March 26 this regard.

Sent Department, repeated Nanking 408, OffEmb Canton 63, Shanghai 450.

Clubb
  1. Post, p. 1080.↩
  2. Telegram No. 658, April 21, 7 p. m. ibid .↩
  3. For documentation on the so-called peace negotiations between the Chinese Government and the Chinese Communists, see pp. 1 ff.↩
  4. Col. David G. Barrett, Assistant Military Attaché in China.↩
  5. The Secretary of State in telegram No. 85, April 29, 8 p. m., informed the Consul General at Tientsin as follows: “‘Projected move’ refers approach ConGen Peiping to Commies re conditions Mukden.” (702.0093/4–2949)↩