861.77 Chinese Eastern/727: Telegram
The Chargé in China (Perkins) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 24—11:55 a.m.]
1189. My 1179, December 21, 10 p.m. Following from the American Consul at Harbin:
“December 22, 4 p.m. International party returned yesterday morning. No doubt that party’s trip was purposely blocked by Chinese military. Fate of foreigners and foreign priests at Hailar still uncertain. It is planned to send international party later if Marshal Chang at Mukden will issue orders to the military commander in chief at Buketu to allow it to proceed.
Soviet aeroplane flew over and sound of firing whether from aeroplane or by Chinese forces unknown heard yet at Yakeshi furthest Chinese outpost. From this station west, neither Chinese military nor civil authorities have any control whatsoever. Unconfirmed reports state that there is a movement among the young Barguts who are under Soviet influence to secure the detachment of Barga from Manchuria and that the older Barguts are opposed to this movement. Three brigades of Fengtien troops are on the defensive between both Yakeshi and Buketu. No preparations are being made by the Chinese military to clear railway west of Yakeshi of so-called Red, Mongol, or other detachment or brigands.
Conditions at Suichangho and Taheiho quiet.
It is still unknown when Tsai will return.”