893.00/10653: Telegram
The Chargé in China (Perkins) to the Secretary of State
[Received 7:41 p.m.]
1107. Following is being sent the commander in chief:
“Legation’s December 8, 11 a.m. Reports from principal centers continue to interpret seriousness of revolt against Nanking threatening the stability of the present government. Should the situation in the Yangtze region result in local disorders with attendant inability of the Chinese local authorities to give adequate protection to foreigners, it appears best to advise the withdrawal of American citizens from affected areas to places where they can be protected or from which they may be evacuated in an emergency. Apart however from the reports regarding relief at Nanking and at Ichang consular officers have not as yet advised me that there are American citizens in their respective districts.”