893.20/10–2349: Telegram
The Chargé in China (Strong) to the Secretary of State
[Received October 24—1:40 a. m.]
Cantel 1219. Late yesterday afternoon at interview requested by Chu Chang-wei he inquired as to status of US plans for China aid. Upon being told substance of telCan 728, October 17,19 he said that President Li had directed him to request Embassy urgently inform Department that Li desires in very near future proceed to US to make personal appeal to President Truman, Secretary Acheson and “other high government officials” for aid. Chu said Li hoped US Government would invite him make trip and provide US Government aircraft for, the journey.
According to Chu, if US Government does not extend invitation Li will soon visit US anyhow “for thorough medical examination” and will use trip as opportunity to make appeal even though the physical examination pretext for going to US may be regarded as obvious.
Chu repeatedly emphasized that this trip did not mean Li intended give up fight. He asserted Li, together with Pai Chung-hsi, intended fight to finish.
On behalf President Li, Chu requested earliest possible reply.