893.01/3–1848: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Stuart) to the Secretary of State
[Received March 19—5:50 a. m.]
483. Qualified usually reliable Chinese source in position to acquire following information informed us on March 17 that CC Clique has lost influence with Generalissimo, who is now turning toward Political Science Group; that Generalissimo thinks General Li Tsung-jen most qualified candidate for Vice Presidency; that Political Science Group is now dissatisfied with Generalissimo’s lack of leadership in critical situation and desires see him become head of Executive Yuan with Sun Fo, whom they feel they could control, as President; that, if Generalissimo does not acquiesce in this arrangement or provide leadership required in present exigency, Political Science Group contemplates coup d’état to replace him; and, that Hu Shih, on arrival Nanking next week, will again be offered Ambassadorship to Washington and will accept.
We consider this information probably true. Other sources have reported rumors of coup d’état and there is evidence of breach between CC Clique and Generalissimo. However, this is first report that Generalissimo will support Li Tsung-jen as Vice President. If this is so, it is probably indicative that Generalissimo is attempting to adjust difference with Political Science Group and reach compromise with them to avoid complete removal from political scene. Generalissimo is almost certainly aware of growing sentiment against [Page 157] him in Government circles and is probably sufficiently adroit at political manoeuvering to insure his retaining large amount authority, at least to point where he can continue to obstruct policies he does not favor. Thus, we consider coup d’état as possible, but unlikely. In any event, we anticipate that some Government reorganization in near future is probable and that such reorganization will result in more effective leadership with more positive policies than is now the case.