893.001 Chiang Kai-shek/1–2249: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Stuart) to the Secretary of State
[Received January 22—3:02 p. m.]
194. Following is Central News Agency’s English translation of text of Vice-President Li Tsung-jen’s message:
“In consideration of the difficulties confronting the nation and the hardships suffered by the people and with a view to promoting the early realization of peace, President Chiang Kai-shek has decided to retire from office. In accordance with article 49 of the Constitution I as Vice-President shall exercise the duties and powers of the President.
“It is with great diffidence that I accept such heavy responsibilities. I have worked for more than 20 years for the consummation of the revolution under the leadership of the President. In those years, I have gained an intimate knowledge of the great care the President [Page 74] exercised in performing the duties of his high offices and the emphasis he always placed upon the welfare of the nation and the people. In matters relating to his personal position, he has always exercised great prudence and shown extreme sincerity. Once a decision is made, he never changes his mind.
“In the circumstances, I have found it impossible to decline the performance of the duties thus entrusted to me. I can only do my best to serve the country with loyalty, hoping to maintain the continuity of the affairs of state and to complete the President’s mission in bringing about the salvation of the nation and the people.
“It is my hope that all the people of the nation will extend to me their sincere cooperation, that all civil and military officials will remain at their respective posts and that one and all will, in accordance with the policies of peace and reconstruction, exert their concerted effort for the attainment of democracy and freedom.”