123 Stuart, J. Leighton: Telegram

The Minister-Counselor of Embassy in China (Clark) to the Secretary of State

Cantel 681. Advantages Ambassador visit Peiping seem obvious (Nanking’s 1410, June 30, to Department, repeated Shanghai 780, Canton 594, Peiping 243). However, in making decision for or against, Department should bear in mind numerous requests I have received that Dr. Stuart visit Canton prior his return US. For Ambassador visit Peiping and not Canton would be taken here as unfriendly act and would be terrific blow prestige Government which has not much prestige left.

Sent Department Cantel 681; repeated Nanking 457, Shanghai 394, Peiping 12.

Clark