893.00/6460: Telegram
The Minister in China (MacMurray) to the Secretary of State
[Received July 31—6:30 a.m.]
301. Referring to my telegram number 284, July 22, noon.60 Following from Canton: [Page 758]
“July 27, 2 p.m. Referring to my telegram[s] of July 22, 1 p.m., July 30, 1 a.m. Steamers now stopped by strike and foreign community here entirely dependent for transportation and mails on a merchant vessel taken over by the British Navy. General situation seems to be less strained but there are no indications whatever of a settlement locally. On the contrary British still continue strengthening Shameen defenses so that island has become fortified camp as I have reported previously. According to a statement in Hongkong newspapers the British recently seized Norwegian vessel laden with a large cargo of rice for Canton from a foreign port. British consul general says, more or less seriously, present situation may continue until Christmas with Shameen entirely closed against Chinese and suspicious foreigners. Strike of postal employees still continues.”
“July 28, 4 p.m. It is rumored radicals will attempt to seize local government August 1st. Five deaths from enteric fever have occurred in French Concession during July. Because of unreliable communication at present I suggest Legation’s telegrams to me be sent to consul general at Hongkong to be forwarded by post or if urgent by radio.[”]