893.00/12355: Telegram
The Consul General at Canton (Ballantine) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 30—10:30 a.m.]
Tension in political circles appeared to be developing as a result of the efforts of Hu Han-min and certain other civilian leaders to [Page 349] launch a new anti-Chiang Kai-shek movement. It is still uncertain what turn events will take from reports but according to the best information available the military leaders particularly are opposed to an overt separatist movement unless strong support is assured from anti-Chiang elements in the North.
On May 27, Southwest Politic[al] Council is reported to have telegraphed Nanking inquiring about the actual terms reached with Japan.
… Today’s press contains a lengthy statement by Hu Han-min condemnatory of Chiang and peace with Japan which he foresees will lead to the disintegration of China. Repeated to the Legation and Nanking.