893.00/8009: Telegram
The Minister in China (MacMurray) to the Secretary of State
[Received January 6—10:45 a.m.]
16. 1. My 13, January 6, 2 p.m. Following from American consul general, Hankow:
“January 5, 10 p.m. British Concession practically devoid of women and children tonight. Many of the British men remaining are concentrated. Ships in the river crowded to capacity. Municipal Council building and offices taken over by the Chinese and flags hoisted. The day has been full of excitement and confusion far more so than at any time since September 1st. Evacuation of all women and children from the port seems inevitable. General strike is likely to be called at any time.”
2. British Legation informs me warning has been received that an attack in force will be made tomorrow against British Concession at Kiukiang.
3. In view of serious developments on the Yangtze and probable reaction at Shanghai I am suggesting to the commander in chief, United States Asiatic Fleet,88 that it would be advisable if either he or some senior officer were to proceed at once to Shanghai to command American naval forces there.
- Admiral Clarence S. Williams, U. S. Navy.↩