893.00/9–2047: Telegram
The Consul General at Mukden (Ward) to the Secretary of State
[Received September 22—8:20 a.m.]
273. Chen Cheng energetically preparing Nationalists for anticipated Communist sixth offensive.
Morale of northeasterners and military definitely strengthened by indications Nationalists no longer considering withdrawal from Manchuria, as was currently rumored last stages Communist fifth offensive. Chen already has established reputation as being unequivocally opposed [Page 288] to corruption among army and public officials. Several high ranking military officers have been arrested for corruption and rumors being circulated they will be executed. Rumor prevalent Chen Ming-jen recently promoted rank Lt. General and hailed as hero of Ssuping will be court-martialed by Chen Cheng for corruption. Chen definitely interested in civilian welfare and personally visits markets observing conditions and practices of military personnel dealing merchant. All these acts raising morale. Chen has pushed repair of Changchun–Mukden rail line. Barring unforeseen events or Communist activity, traffic between Mukden and Changchun should be reestablished by October 7. Confidential source within PNEH68 states four armies totaling approximately 120,000 men being sent to northeast. Bulk of one army has already arrived. Nationalists feel that if not pressed too hard during next month and half, they will be able start own offensive, but this seems unduly optimistic.
Communists concealing future intentions well. Nationalists still uncertain where main attack will center. Communist troop concentrations indicate Nationalists could expect main efforts against Kirin and Ssupingkai and possibly a third main effort in the Hulutao–Chinchow area, should the Communists be able to supply three simultaneous drives. Probable date opening Communist offensive still uncertain. Muddy roads may have been holding up drive to date. Communists also may be waiting until Nationalists have expended equipment in repairing rail lines because they undoubtedly realize that if they effectively destroy rail line this offensive Nationalists will experience great difficulty in again restoring it.
If Communists receiving instructions from Moscow as to strategy, may also be desirous drawing Nationalist troops into Manchuria from intramural China, to relieve Nationalist pressure there. Might do this if think Manchurian Communists capable handling increased number of Nationalists.
Little hope seen for Nationalists before Chen Cheng’s arrival. His arrival coupled with energetic positive action his part plus reinforcements lend Nationalists hope. Northeastern spokesman skeptical Chen’s initial momentum will continue and adopting “wait and see” attitude toward him. Readily admit he is moving in right direction, but think it too early to make definite decision re permanency his reform. Many people think job too big for Chen and that soon he will become bogged down in maze of detail work and major issues which he now personally handles will again fall into hands of subordinates who will abuse power. In any event his holding and possibly expanding of present Nationalist controlled northeast will prove extremely [Page 289] difficult task for reason such area consists of vulnerable corridor extending from Great Wall to Sungari River.
Sent Nanking as 405, repeated Department as 273, sent Changchun by mail as 261.
- Generalissimo Chiang’s Northeast Headquarters.↩