893.00/5–1849: Telegram
The Minister-Counselor of Embassy in China (Clark) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 16 [18]—4:17 p. m.]
Cantel 406. Long conversation with Wu Tieh-cheng strengthens my conviction that distrust is so deep-seated among leaders that unified resistance is impossibility. Wu and those who think like him have real fear that Li may leave them in lurch and make peace with Communists. Wu insists that Li has full authority dispose treasure Taiwan and fire anyone he chooses. He is indignant that Li demands Generalissimo go abroad before exercising authority he already has. In explanation Li’s unwillingness force issue by exercising authority, Wu said he was convinced that Li, in typical Chinese fashion, was reluctant take action which would hurt someone else’s feelings. (Fact of matter is, it seems to me, that Li knows his orders would not be obeyed and is unwilling risk loss of face which would inevitably result.)
Wu says China needs both Generalissimo and Li Tsung-jen. Three times, he said, Li had suggested that one or the other go abroad, but Generalissimo was adamant that he would remain China in retirement.
In their efforts to bring Generalissimo and Li together, Wu and his group are seeking public statement from Li couched in terms which would make later reconciliation with Communists impossible. They will insist that Generalissimo can function as head of party, with Li functioning as head of government, without friction. Li knows better.
Wu admits basic differences in strategy of Li and Generalissimo, with Li advocating defense mainland and Generalissimo defense southeast coast line and Taiwan. In effort reconcile these differences and assure defense of both, meeting of governors of provinces of southwest and Taiwan is taking place in Canton. Conference will study political, military and economic problems of defense. Wu expressed hope that out of conference would come plans resulting in halting Communist advance though he didn’t say so with conviction.
Sent Department Cantel 406; repeated Nanking 298, Shanghai 251.