Office of the Historian

893.00/8–549: Telegram

The Chargé in China (Clark) to the Secretary of State

Canton, August 5, 1949—noon.
[Received August 9—5:22 a. m.]

Cantel 881. Chu Chang-wei, political advisor to President, told me General Pai Chung-hsi position critical [as] result defection Hunan Governor Cheng Chien who tried make local peace and now gone over to Commies. Government hoping Hunan troops remain loyal [to] new Governor Chen Ming-jen, whom Pai appointed because once also commanded same troops. Also admitted ammunition situation growing serious and stated no ammunition forthcoming from Taiwan. Said Ma’s needs for ammunition also not met.

Clark