893.00/6305: Telegram

The Chargé in China ( Mayer ) to the Secretary of State

246. Following from American consul, Amoy.

“June 23, 10 p.m. Situation has assumed a graver aspect resultant insistence of unruly elements to demonstrate on Kulangsu. Municipal Council acting in the interest of International Settlement have requested consular corps naval protection. Requests have been addressed to their respective naval authorities by the British and Japanese consuls. They have requested that their vessels rendezvous at Chapel Island, Amoy, in view of the gravity of the situation and the statement by the Chinese today that they could not guarantee protection of life and property in the Settlement, together with request of Municipal Council and the announcement of the latter that the Settlement police were insufficient to protect foreigners and property in the Settlement, as well as the fact that a Japanese or a British naval vessel and landing party would only precipitate or aggravate local situation. I recommend naval assistance capable of putting ashore at Settlement landing party of about 100 be sent immediately and anchor outer harbor off Standard Oil Company installation Sung Sua, Amoy. Such action would not be misconstrued by the Chinese authorities here who would cooperate. Boycott with the possibility of a general strike against the British and Japanese appears inevitable and will probably take place here 25th or before. Student and other agitators active. Boycott against the two abovementioned powers already commenced at interior points. Regarding oil situation I have seen and persuaded General Chang at Changchow today to cancel tax, and supplies are again moving. General Chang has advised me all Americans which amount to approximately 100 at Changchow are perfectly safe and well there and there is every reason to believe he will afford the necessary protection if required. I have exceeded my telegram allowance by approximately $25 gold. Urgent.”

Pertinent parts repeated to commander in chief.

Mayer