893.00/4239: Telegram
The Minister in China (Schurman)15 to the Secretary of State
[Received March 3—10:25 a.m.]
71. Political deadlock continues. Premier Liang continues nominal sick leave and all government by departments [sic] becoming daily more hopelessly embarrassed financially. Rumored that C. C. Wu,16 son of Wu Ting-fang,17 is in Mukden conferring with Chang Tso-lin in the hope of reaching understanding between latter and Canton for joint attack on Chihli party if necessary, especially Wu Pei-fu. Chang credibly reported within the month furnished Sun Yat-sen18 about $2,000,000. Members of old Parliament in North have published manifesto demanding reconvocation of that Parliament and Legation credibly informed Liang intends, with the cooperation of Sun Yat-sen, to stamp [recall?] old Parliament for alleged constitutional ousting of the present President, possibly electing Tuan Chi-jui.19 Usual Chinese suspicions that Japanese are backing Tuan with the object of keeping China in turmoil. President has issued long circular telegram assuming sole responsibility [Page 688] Cabinet appointments and urging all officials and citizens unite in unifying country and carrying out decisions of Washington Conference. Telegram also declares that public is disgusted with military operations and exhorts military and civil officials everywhere head popular demand for peace. Message is said to have been forced from the President by pressure from Chang. In spite of current rumors to the contrary, information from military and confidential sources indicates compromise may be effected that will defer action.
- Minister Schurman was absent from Peking on a tour of inspection to the coast cities of China, Feb. 24 to Apr. 15, 1922, leaving A. B. Ruddock in charge. Telegrams from the Legation during this period are, however, signed “Schurman”.↩
- Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, Canton Government.↩
- Minister of Foreign Affairs, Canton Government.↩
- President of Canton Government.↩
- Former Premier and leader in Anfu Club.↩