893.00/4–449: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Stuart) to the Secretary of State
[Received April 4—10:59 p. m.]
700. Widely reported Nanking vernacular press April 2 is following translation initial written statement by Nationalist peace delegation issued immediately prior departure to Peiping April 1:
“While leaving for Peiping to open peace talks with Communists according to the Government’s instructions, we are aware of heaviness of responsibilities and feel as if we are approaching the edge of an abyss or walking on thin ice. We also know that during peace negotiations there will arise many difficulties but we believe that if both sides place interests of the nation and people’s welfare above all and peace talks are carried on in spirit of mutual trust and understanding [Page 226] any difficulty can be overcome. We will follow carefully Government’s instructions and talk with Communists with greatest sincerity and hope an agreement can be reached so that true and lasting peace may be realized at an early date and the enthusiastic hope of the people satisfied. It is our hope that peace-loving people in various circles will give us from time to time their advice, guidance and support.”
Sent Department 700; repeated Shanghai 328, OffEmb Canton unnumbered.