123 Stuart, J. Leighton: Telegram
The Minister-Counselor of Embassy in China (Clark) to the Secretary of State
[Received 9:22 p. m.]
Cantel 213. My reasoning in preferring third alternative regarding; Ambassador’s movements, Nanking’s 750, April 12 to Department, repeated Canton 244, Shanghai 363, Taipei unnumbered, is as follows:
[Page 680]Should Ambassador remain Nanking despite invitation Acting President accompany him Canton, such action would unquestionably have adverse effect on morale those advocating further resistance and tend discredit Nationalist Government. Agree, however, that for Ambassador accept invitation and proceed Canton would likely end for all time any personal influence he might have in Chinese thinking circles and make it impossible for him assist Americans remaining Communist-dominated China. On the other hand, should he remain Nanking we may anticipate that he will be subjected to indignity of being ignored while treated with correctness as private individual. In view action Communists in respect of Consular offices North China, find it difficult believe presence Ambassador Nanking after departure Acting President and Government would accomplish any purpose other than that which I gather is envisaged by Dr. Stuart; namely, to demonstrate to Chinese coming under Communist domination our availability to Communist approach in effort reach some modus vivendi with resulting discredit to Communists when they fail take advantage opportunity.
Third course of action seems offer avoidance discrediting Nationalist Government, avoiding subjecting Ambassador to indignities or prejudicing his position while at same time holding him available on consultation in US ready to return either to Canton or to Communist-dominated territory as circumstances and our interests seem to dictate.
I agree desirability agree action among principally interested nations, particularly North Atlantic community, yet feel all with possible exception British seek our guidance.
Sent Department, repeated Nanking 188, Shanghai 138, Taipei 3.