893.00/9892: Telegram
The Minister in China ( MacMurray ) to the Secretary of State
[Received April 24—12:55 p.m.]
261. My 252, April 20, 11 a.m. Following from Tsinanfu:
“April 23, 4 p.m. Reports believed reliable indicate Kuominchun have commenced advance on Taian, their cavalry being reported to have appeared near Taian. Generally believed Taian will be evacuated within a few days. Marshal Chang now at Chiehshow 15 miles north of Taian. Reported recapture of Tsining unconfirmed. Kuominchun advancing towards Yellow River from Yuncheng and Wenshang north of Tsining and missionary from Tungchang reports Northern troops from there and from Taming despatched to keep back Chinese on north bank of Yellow River to oppose advance. Three Americans evacuated from Taian by boat and it is hoped to bring out two more tomorrow evening. Evacuation of American women and children from Tsinanfu and elsewhere proceeding but majority left show no disposition to leave. Have received the following telegram via Shanghai from Americans who remained in Tenghsien ‘persons, property unharmed, relations cordial,’ indicating that Southern troops did not molest them. Tientsin, Tsingtau, Chefoo kept informed.”