893.0146/84: Telegram
The Minister in China (MacMurray) to the Secretary of State
[Received October 5—11:40 a.m.]
749. Following telegram to commander in chief repeated for your information:
“October 5, 3 p.m. I have consulted the American consul general at Shanghai as to the necessity for the continued presence of the marines now at that port. Cunningham feels some apprehension concerning the possibility of disturbances arising from the observance of October 10th for which somewhat elaborate plans have apparently been made. Barring any untoward incident in this connection creating a new situation he felt that the marines might be reduced by approximately one-half their present strength.
I concur in this view and hope that conditions may continue to develop so that the balance of the marines at Shanghai may also be withdrawn in the next few months. With a view, however, to meeting any possible future emergency, I suggest that such disposition of the marine forces may be made as would permit of suitable contingents being readily available for China service if needed on short notice.”