893.51/4465: Telegram
The Minister in China (Schurman) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 18—3:55 a.m.]
410. My 406, December 17, 11 a.m.86 Following from American consul general at Canton:
“December 17, 11 a.m. About 70 French marines landed in French concession Shameen yesterday and are now being housed in former French post office building. Understand this was done because of lack quarters on board ship. British also landed men their part Shameen for drill. Neither Sun nor any other official of local government [Page 574] attended mass meeting yesterday. Norman intimates confidentially general commanding local troops will keep order and prevent any outbreak against foreigners. Have no assurance, however, that mass meetings and agitation will cease. Presence of our ships helping. Norman says that Sun will deliver order to customs commissioner 19th as planned and await reply.[”]
- Not printed.↩