893.00/5686: Telegram
The Chargé in China (Mayer) to the Secretary of State
Peking, October 29,
1924—5 p.m.
[Received October 29—1:40 p.m.]
[Received October 29—1:40 p.m.]
416. Legation’s 412, October 27, 11 p.m.14
- 1. Peking quiet but decided uneasiness evident in Chinese population. One hundred and twenty-five additional marines arrived October 28, midnight, and the same number on two destroyers en route Peking.
- 2. It is reported that after some dispute Tuan Chi-jui has been elected commander of the National People’s Army replacing Feng Yu-hsiang. This army now composed of the respective forces of Generals Feng and Hu Ching-yi and Sun Yao. I learn that resignation of President Tsao Kun and appointment of new Cabinet are deferred pending elimination of Wu Pei-fu but leaders expect announcement within week. There seems to be considerable difficulty in agreeing upon appointees for various posts, and forecasts are premature. Some jealousy and friction exists in the above triumvirate. Minor officers like directors of railways and commandant gendarmerie are being replaced by henchmen of the above. Kuomintang names prominent in discussions. C. T. Wang active and influential under Feng’s patronage.
- 3. Whether Feng or Wu will receive support of different provincial leaders is determining factor in the present situation but continues doubtful. Wu’s defeated provincial militarists may support Feng coalition or form new groups among themselves. Chang Tsolin has announced intention of coming to Peking. Please repeat to War Department.
- Number 4 [apparent omission] repeated to Tokyo.
Mayer
- Not printed.↩