CO129-495 - Governor Sir Clementi - 1926 [11-12] — Page 113

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each other. None

None of the details, at present being discussed were known to Sir Shouson Chow's informant, but it is accepted that it is impossible for Chang Tao-lin to come to any terms if the "red" influence in the South is not entirely eliminated. In other words if the Russian element in the Southern Government

is not dismissed.

Chang Tso-lin, Sun Ch'uan-fang, Yen Shi-shan, Chang Tsung-chang, and u P'ei-fu have, it appears, been driven to the conclusion that they must either agree with the South or fight them. Important pre- parations for taking the field are well advanced and if this combination determines to take serious action the South realizes that they will not have things all their own way. On both sides, therefore, the necessity for an agreement has become very press- ing. It still remains to gather confirmation of this rumour, and if it is true, of the many details that will necessarily have to be discussed if the suggestion goes any further.

(Sd) E. R. HALLIFAX. Secretary for Chinese Affairs.

24th November, 1926.