893.00/4–2049: Telegram
The Minister-Counselor of Embassy in China (Clark) to the Secretary of State
[Received April 20—6:16 a. m.]
Cantel 241. George Yeh, Acting Foreign Minister, said that when Li Tsung-jen at Canton he was accused at meeting CEC of having eventual intention to sell out to Communists. Li had insisted he was no coward; had no intention of surrendering, and pled with those present not to prejudge him but to await his actions. Yeh is convinced Li will not accept Communist ultimatum and that fighting will be resumed, but he anticipates reshuffle in Cabinet. Of prime importance is to obtain leader who can hold military together in some semblance unified command and Ho Ying-chin seems only one available. Yeh said there has been talk of making Ho Supreme Commander in Chief, but Ho continues refuse. Yeh thinks, therefore, Ho will remain Premier and may assume tasks if suitable Commander in Chief unfound.
Sent Department Cantel 241; repeated Nanking 206, Shanghai 159.