TLS signed “Mayling Soong Chiang,” one page, 7.25 x 10.75, Headquarters of the Generalissimo letterhead, January 10, 1939. Addressed from Chungking, Szechwan, a letter to Rev. George S. Bell, a Canadian missionary in China, in full: “Sometime before it was known that Mr. G. W. Shepherd was leaving for America, we discussed the possibility of Rev. J. G. Endicott being seconded for a year, or six months, to assist us in the development of the New Life Movement in this province of Szechwan. I believe that the contacts which Mr. Endicott would make would be of advantage to the people, whose well-being is the interest of your Mission.
I have not discussed the matter with Mr. Endicott, but I have written him a letter asking if he would be interested to join us provided that you were able to grant permission. I hope that you will not hesitate in this matter because I think you know the Movement is contributing greatly to the amelioration of conditions of life of the people. Mr. Endicott has experience and contacts in this province which would not only help us but which would, I think, enhance the value of the work upon which he is already engaged.
We have already begun active work in various directions to make the principles of the Movement felt amongst the people, and we feel convinced that with time much can be done to better the spiritual, as well as material, conditions of the people. Hoping that I am not presuming too much, and that the United Church of Canada will be able to loan us the services of Mr. Endicott.” In fine condition, with a light crease to the upper left corner.
George W. Shepherd served as a Congregationalist missionary in China between 1919 and 1939, during which time he became proficient in the Chinese language and worked to spread Christianity around the Chinese countryside. Shepherd's close connection with Chinese politics developed during the latter half of his time in China as the result of his work with Chiang Kai-Shek's wife, known as Madame Kai-Shek, and the New Life Movement she supported. The New Life Movement sought to blend Chinese moral values found in Confucianism along with some Christianity and had a heavy nationalist influence. George Shepherd focused primarily on the Christianity aspect and sought to spread faith to as many Chinese citizens as possible through the New Life Movement.
James Gareth Endicott (1898–1993) was a Canadian Christian minister, missionary, and socialist. As a missionary in China, Endicott taught English and became a professor of English and Ethics at West China Union University. He became social advisor to Chiang Kai-shek and political advisor to his New Life Movement. Initially a supporter of Chiang Kai-shek and his wife, he once compared Chiang to Abraham Lincoln and described Madame Chiang as a combination of Helen of Troy, Florence Nightingale, and Joan of Arc. However, Endicott later distanced himself from the Chiangs after witnessing the ill-treatment of Chinese troops and the Kuomintang's corruption. This led to his befriending of Zhou Enlai and his support of the Chinese Communist Party.
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