123 Clark, Lewis: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Stuart) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 9—7:34 a. m.]
2467. I am perturbed at thought that Clark will not remain with me in Nanking in event Generalissimo moves Canton or elsewhere (Deptel 1777, December 7). By every test Generalissimo has lost his leadership and has no backing either within Government or from the people either in the Kmt or outside. Any government he might establish in Canton would have only restricted authority and, in fact, [Page 860] little vestige of its previous power even though it would have legitimacy. In Nanking we could anticipate meeting new and crucial issues for which I need best possible consensus and would miss Clark upon whose counsel I have come to rely.
If Department feels that designation Ludden as First Secretary would afford inadequate representation, may I suggest possibility sending Political Counselor Jones with requisite staff. Jones could give broad political background and experience while Ludden could supply specialized China knowledge. I should appreciate Department’s reconsideration this matter, realizing of course that actual decision cannot be taken until we are confronted with problem.19
- The Acting Secretary of State, in telegram No. 1799, December 10, 1 p. m., to the Ambassador in China, stated: “Recommendations contained urtel 2467 Dec 9 will be given every consideration in light of situation and circumstances as reported by you at time move has to be made.”↩