893.00/12–1245: Telegram
The Chargé in China (Robertson) to the Secretary of State
[Received 2:15 p.m.]
2146. My telegram December 896 delayed in servicing. Stevens at Peiping reported in substance as follows:
According to Japanese Liaison Office, Eighth and New Fourth Communist Armies recently active along northern section Tientsin–Pukow Railroad wrecking tracks and bridges, including bridges over small and grand canals. According same source, Communists along central section same railroad attacked Jap strong points; Communists at Tsaochwang disarmed Jap garrison and seized coal mines. According Peiping newspaper, Japanese civilian internees in Peiping “do not feel Japan has been defeated”. Economic situation Peiping not improved. Prices of Mentoukou coal officially fixed few days ago but supply insufficient, resulting black market rate about three times higher. Serious problem in furnishing electric power for factories and utilities, Peiping merchants and public urged to curtail consumption. Bank [of] Communications and Bank [of] China reopened Peiping and Tientsin. Office of Supreme Court in Peiping established superseding puppet court.