893.001 Chiang Kai-shek/3–1449: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Stuart) to the Secretary of State
Received March 14—4:36 a. m.
562. Following return Chang Chih-chung and Wu Chung-hsin from Fenghua, lengthy conference was held with Acting President Friday evening in effort present [prevent?] impasse caused by Generalissimo’s continued residence and activity in China. (See mytel 558, repeated Embassy Canton 157, March 12.) It was finally decided to telephone and talk to him directly, Chang Chih-chung speaking first, followed by Li Tsung-jen. Generalissimo replied he had decided to go abroad but that time and place would be of his own choosing. He expressed resentment at press reports, particularly American, that pressure was being put on him to leave China. Despite Generalissimo’s truculent mood, Acting President is encouraged believe his assurances mean he will go abroad in near future. He hopes there will be as little publicity as possible prior to Generalissimo’s departure and enjoined on me greatest caution and secrecy with respect this new development.
Sent Department, repeated AmEmb Canton 159.