893.00/7886: Telegram
The Minister in China (MacMurray) to the Secretary of State
[Received November 30—10:48 a.m.]
587. 1. Consul at Foochow telegraphed November 29 that retreating Northern forces had reached Foochow and trouble might be expected. Governor had intimated that local authorities could not afford protection to foreign lives and property and, although subsequently [Page 656] retracted by him, the making of this statement occasions apprehension. Consul suggested that an American warship be held in readiness to proceed there and stated that other consuls were taking similar action. He again telegraphed November 30, 11 a.m. as follows:
“Fukien navy joining 23rd mixed brigade under the command of Li Sheng-chun have turned over to the South. Fighting now in progress here between the forces above mentioned and those of Chiang. I request the despatch American warship as soon as possible.”
2. I have transmitted his request to commander in chief with my endorsement.