893.00/5–1749: Telegram
The Minister-Counselor of Embassy in China (Clark) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 17—9:56 a. m.]
Cantel 390. Chen Li-fu says Li Tsung-jen is unconvincing in his protestations of determination resist Communism. His statement when he returned Canton left loophole further peace negotiations. Chen said Li should make unqualified public statement of determination fight to finish and C–C clique might believe him. Chen thinks neither Li nor Gimo can save situation alone and is making strenuous efforts bring them together. He is suggesting that Gimo come Canton as head party and that he with Li as head of government would determine policy, Li executing decisions. This of course just what Li has so far refused flatly to do.
Sent Department Cantel 390; repeated Nanking 287, Shanghai 243.