893.00/5780: Telegram
The Chargé in China (Mayer) to the Secretary of State
[Received November 20—9:35 a.m.]
451. My 448, November 18, 4 p.m. paragraph 2. Following from American consul general Hankow:
“November 19, 7 p.m. My November 17, 11 p.m. General Wu left yesterday for Chengchow to be followed immediately by his troops who arrived here today.
No steps are being taken to carry out the plan of the proposed military government. Intention to form this government is not definite, the proposal being a temporary emergency measure designed primarily for defensive purposes against the North and also for threatening the North and restoring Chihli Party to power. Wu though anxious to carry out the project may be unable to retain support. Hsiao is opposed to the telegram out of a desire to see Wu leave Hupeh.”
Morning press carries the announcement substantially as reported in my 448, November 18, 4 p.m. No information as yet regarding reaction of announcement on Tientsin conferences.