893.00/8432: Telegram
The Minister in China (MacMurray) to the Secretary of State
[Received 7:01 p.m.]
253. Telegram sent today to American consul at Tsinan informs him of situation at Nanking and then states:
“Legation has no information concerning a possible retreat of Northern forces from northern Kiangsu or concerning any possible leaning of Chang Tsung-ch’ang toward the Nationalist cause which might result in an antiforeign movement in your district. At the same time the Legation believes that it would be expedient for you to initiate [Page 265] the withdrawal of American citizens in the southern part of your district to Tsinanfu or other suitable places.
Paragraph 3. Acknowledge the receipt of this telegram and report any action taken pursuant thereto. Keep the Legation fully informed by telegraph with regard to any matters indicating an antiforeign trend on the part of Northern militarists or Shantung officials or people.”