893.0146/86: Telegram

The Minister in China ( MacMurray ) to the Secretary of State

768. Legation’s 749, October 5, 3 [6] p.m.

1.
Following from commander in chief:

“0010. Reference your October 5, 3 p.m. Providing the celebration on the 10th passes without incident, I propose, in accordance [Page 316] with your recommendations and suggestions, to forward the following despatch to the Navy Department:

‘In accordance with the following despatch received from the American Minister (your October 5, 3 p.m.), I propose with the approval of the Department to take two companies of marines, about one hundred and fifty men from the Fourth Regiment at Shanghai and embark them on light-cruiser division 2 for temporary transfer to Olongapo where they will be disembarked. This will give these men a change of scenery and exercise. They will also be utilized as coaches for the fleet in the coming small-arms exercises at the rifle range. If an emergency arises these companies can be returned to Shanghai or to any other part of China on very short notice and in the quickest possible time by light-cruiser division 2.’

Will you inform me if the above quittance of the marine force at Shanghai is in agreement with your views. It is also desired that commanding general of the Third Brigade comment on the above. 2020.”

2.
Following from Legation to commander in chief:

“October 11, 8 p.m. Your 0010–1020 [2020]. Your proposal to retire two companies from Fourth Regiment at Shanghai by light-cruiser division 8 [2?] to Olongapo is in line with the considerations which I had in mind in my despatch October 5. 3 p.m.”

3.
Headquarters of Third Brigade states that “General Butler approves.”
MacMurray
  1. Telegram in two sections.