Marshall Mission Files, Lot 54–D270: Telegram
General Marshall to Colonel Marshall S. Carter
1181. There is no objection that I see for the Chinese to purchase equipment and ammunition in the United States providing it is stipulated that delivery on undelivered items, whether paid for or not, can be withheld by the United States should that course appear to be in the best interests of the United States. Your 9524953 refers. In this connection I asked General Gillem54 very recently to add a similar proviso in a message he was sending to the War Department concerning additional equipment and 7.92 ammunition for the Chinese. While I am uncertain that this proviso is completely feasible I feel that this course would be best as far as my negotiations are concerned and also would be in the best interest of the United States. Even if the suggestion is not feasible an embargo could be established should United States policy be changed or modified.