393.1115/8–2249: Telegram
The Chargé in China (Clark) to the Secretary of State
[Received 6:44 p. m.]
Cantel 1001. Discussed at Foreign Office again today question repatriation ship and outlined plans re General Gordon and President [Page 1308] Wilson (telCan 598, August 19, repeated Shanghai 1649, Nanking 987). Chen Tai-chu, Director American section with whom I talked and who is thoroughly familiar with subject, questioned whether use General Gordon or President Wilson would meet with approval Nationalist Government. It had been Government’s idea, he said, that there would be one vessel only for fear that if it were known in advance there might be others, prospective repatriates might delay departure. Nationalist Government preferred approve passage single vessel and consider any subsequent request on its merit. He reiterated Nationalist Government must approve ingoing cargo and that outgoing cargo would not be permitted. He said I should receive note next day or so outlining full position Nationalist Government, but in meantime I should know that Nationalist Government would plan board vessel as it approached Chinese waters and after satisfying itself just unauthorized cargo was not carried, vessel would be escorted by Chinese naval craft to vicinity waters under Communist control and similarly would be met on outgoing voyage to assure no outgoing cargo carried.
He confirmed what I have reported previously that Nationalist Government is prepared permit reasonable amount indirect benefit to Communists which is incidental main purpose obtaining departure from Chinese [China?] foreign nationals, but if Communists are too demanding ship will not be permitted enter Shanghai.
It seems obvious to me from my conversation with Dr. Chen that attempted use General Gordon or President Wilson, either of which may be expected to have general cargo which would become subject jurisdiction Communists when vessel entered Shanghai and might be unloaded despite protests master, is not feasible and will not meet approval Nationalist Government. It seems to me we would be much wiser to proceed immediately toward arranging single vessel enter Shanghai under international auspices purely as repatriation vessel carrying only such cargo as has been agreed upon both by Nationalists and by Communists.
Discussed this problem with British counselor Canton who showed me British request Nationalist Government. British have requested relief ship or ships which would at same time evacuate British and other foreign Nationalists [nationals], cargo being subjected prior Nationalist Government and Communist approval.
It may be that most efficient and economic way tackling problem would be endeavor arrange for British vessels this area make sufficient [Page 1309] number trips evacuate those desiring and authorized by Communists to do so. Nevertheless, as the matter now stands, Nationalist Government still awaits our live [list?] cargo to be carried by General Gordon and anticipated date arrival vicinity Shanghai.
Sent Department; repeated Shanghai 513, Nanking 650, Taipei 139.