893.00/1–1949: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Stuart) to the Secretary of State
[Received January 20—1:36 a. m.]
147. Official Kmt organ Nanking reported on January 19 that Government is collecting opinions from all circles and leaders of local governments regarding Mao Tze-tung’s eight-point peace offer before final decision is made. Few local tabloids allege that Government’s attitude changed from viewpoint that Communist and Government terms irreconcilable to belief that all Communist terms, except one concerning war criminals, are negotiable.
Evidence that further pressure being exerted on Generalissimo revealed by press reports that Carsun Chang paid third visit to President urging him to take vacation; peace appeal by National Assembly delegates to Generalissimo and Mao Tze-tung; statement by Nanking professors urging Government to send envoys to negotiate, and telegram to Mao Tze-tung by officers of women’s leagues in Nanking.
Sent Department 147, repeated Shanghai 77.