893.00/11–549: Telegram
The Chargé in China (Strong) to the Secretary of State
[Received November 5—6:09 a. m.]
Cantel 1259. Just prior to end of conversation with President Li reported next preceding telegram,36 Pai Chung-hsi joined President stating he desired conversation with me. It seems apparent Li telephoned Pai to say that we were with him and he thus could talk with us after Li finished. On evening November 1 Pai had through Dr. Y. C. James Yen extended us invitation to dinner same night which we were unable to attend. Since then bad weather in Kweilin had prevented departure of Pai from Chungking, so this opportunity was seized for continuation of the barrage of pro-Li-Pai military and political aid arguments to which we were subjected previous 2 days by Dr. Yen (Cantel 1254, November 1 [2]37) and Li Han-hun (Cantel 1257, November 438).
After departure of Li, Pai stated that Dr. Yen knew well political and economic aspects of present situation but knew little of military affairs; thus, Pai himself wished to present military side.
Summary his remarks follows:
Communists have roughly 4,800,000 regulars, well-equipped not only from former Nationalist arsenals but also with such quantity and [Page 579] variety of American weapons that he believes USSR is supplying latter from military supplies received from US under lend-lease during late war. He noted as significant fact that Lin Piao is particularly well-equipped with American-made arms.
Nationalists have some 2 million regulars plus 300,000 wounded and sick. Nationalist forces now receive 25 ounces rice per day plus silver dollars 1.75 per month for supplementary foods, etc., and 1 dollar per month as pay. As result they cannot be disciplined thoroughly in matters such as helping themselves to food and fuel. Winter uniforms not yet issued to Nationalist troops although snow has already fallen some areas. Pai himself draws 27 dollars per month.
He then said US wanted Nationalist army to prove ability stand on final line of defense before would give aid. This, he asserted, was impossible under existing circumstances. In own case he claimed his troops can fight successfully against double their number of Communists, or under certain conditions thrice their number, but he can stand on line such as at Hengyang for one or possibly two major battles after which his force would no longer have combat value. To make permanent stand he needs reserve supplies and troop replacements. Former he does not have and latter he cannot train because of lack of money and weapons. He offered guarantee that with 20 well-equipped and well-paid armies he could hold southwest China and even begin push Communists back and advocated another advisory group to work with Central Government and said would welcome US officers to inspect or even supervise his own forces. Every cent which might be given him he asserted would be spent for purpose intended.
He concluded by saying Communists are international. U.S. has big stake in defeat of Communists in China and “immediate action is desperately needed”.
We reiterated to Pai contents telCan 728, October 17 which previously stated to Chu Chang-wei (Cantel 1219, October 2339) who on this occasion served as interpreter.
Throughout interview Pai was serious and at times seemed deeply depressed. As usual he was dressed in ill-fitting uniform of cheap material devoid of insignia. His contrast with the luxury of President’s home and neat suits of Li and Chu was marked. We noted that heels of his shoes were built up to give him appearance of a greater stature.
Sent Department Cantel 1259, pouched Hong Kong, Kunming, Taipei.