893.00/7630: Telegram
The Chargé in China (Mayer) to the Secretary of State
[Received September 13—1:30 p.m.]
394. Legation’s 390, September 11, 3 p.m.24 Following from American consul general, Hankow:
“September 12, 3 p.m. No firing on foreign vessels since Friday afternoon. Protest had previously been filed by consular body; and at my direction Huston25 made oral representations Friday afternoon to General Tang, commander of the Cantonese forces in this area, protesting the firing, and the General agreed to [issue?] order forbidding firing on foreign vessels within his jurisdiction.
Stated officially that commission form of government will eventually be instituted.
Conditions in Hankow gradually improving. Wanhsien incident still a lively topic of discussion and speculation. British flagship Hawkins with commander in chief of Asiatic Fleet has arrived. Volunteer forces and naval units still ashore but may be withdrawn from special district and French Concession tomorrow if situation continues to improve.
Wuchang still holding out and negotiations for settlement continuing.”