893.50 Recovery/5–1948: Telegram

The Ambassador in China (Stuart) to the Secretary of State

895. Embassy remains of opinion bilateral agreement can be negotiated and signed by July 3 even if formal negotiations not inaugurated until June 1 (reference first paragraph Deptel 738, May 15, 1 p.m.). Highly desirable, however, that English text US draft be available for presentation to Chinese for translation and study 1 week in advance June 1. Despite Foreign Office informal opinion reported in Embtel 864 of May 13 and absence ability secure authoritative opinion, Embassy believes it remains safe assumption that Legislative Yuan approval not necessary prior to signature and entry into force of bilateral agreement.

Sent Department 895; repeated Shanghai 397.

Stuart