893.00/8–1849: Telegram
The Consul General at Hong Kong (Hopper) to the Secretary of State
[Received 12:21 P. m.]
578. On August 14, Hong Kong group headed by Hwang Shao-hsiung,88 Chang Chien-hua and Liu Fei89 issued manifesto attacking Generalissimo as betrayer Sun Yat-sen revolution and advocating cooperation with CCP in interest peace and achievement San Min Chu I90 through new democracy of Mao Tse-tung. Manifesto, generally restrained in tone. Had 44 signatures among which were those of 5 Whampoa generals and contained no references to US. Received highly favorable editorial comment in Ta Kung Pao and extensive writeup in CCP-controlled Huah Siang Pao. Pouching full details.
[Page 495]It is our impression that main purpose manifesto is pave way for signatories reach collective agreement with Communists whereby they can participate as group if possible or as individuals if necessary in coalition government. Since initial response of Communists apparently favorable, highly possible group may gain adherence others similarly situated. For example, we understand group former Kmt generals, including Chang Fa-kuei,91 approved manifesto in principle, but refused to sign pending further consideration. Since group strongly desires reach working arrangement with Communists, its failure make reference in manifesto to “American imperialism” taken by us as indication its fundamentally pro-American orientation, especially since manifesto stresses Chinese independence.
Sent Department 578, repeated Nanking 42, Shanghai 119, Department pass Peiping unnumbered.