File No. 893.00/2601
Minister Reinsch to the Secretary of State
Peking, June 9, 1917, 11 p.m.
The general situation is not unfavorable to compromise as there is discord among the rebel generals and the wiser heads discountenancing violent measures; the communication of the American Government adds to the conciliatory influences. The war question has retired into the background giving way to the purely factional and personal rivalries which from the beginning animated the revolutionists. At present stage is occupied by General Chang Hsun. Upon the invitation of the President who was led to expect assistance from him he has come as far as Tientsin, 2,000 of his troops preceding him [Page 60] to Peking. Assuming role of arbiter in the last resort he is demanding immediate dissolution of Parliament. The President evidently shaken by his disappointment is weakening although he would appear to have a chance of uniting northern generals against Chang who is universally feared and hated. The latter proposes to come to Peking to-morrow.
Presence of his notorious troops here is not reassuring and the question arises whether the diplomatic corps should call on the Chinese Government to prohibit bringing up more of these troops. Understand their presence is unnecessary and threatens disturbances.