893.00/8–449: Telegram
The Vice Consul at Chungking (McGeary) to the Secretary of State
[Received August 5—9:57 p. m.]
138. From Strong. Chairman of local Municipal Council, critic of Nationalist Government but not pro-Communist, states Chang Chun has no real authority and unable unify various military forces in Szechwan. Describes Governor Wang Lin-chi as competing directly with Chang for power, seeking retain all in his own hands. Ascribes failure attain unity to Generalissimo, who continues support Wang despite appointment Chang to supposed supreme position. Does not [Page 471] believe unity attainable either within Szechwan or between Ma Pu-fang, Hu Tsung-nan and Lo Kwan-wen.
As is case with Provincial Council, City Council bitter over failure Nationalist Government pay heed to attitude of “people’s representatives” on numerous matters.
Sent Department 138, repeated Nanking 142, OffEmb Canton 92. [Strong.]