393.11/1224: Telegram
The Minister in China (Johnson) to
the Secretary of State
Peiping,
July 29, 1930—4
p.m.[Received July 29—10:40 a.m.
62]
628. My 627, July 29, 1 p.m. Fallowing from U. S. S. Polos:
- “1028. Departed from Changsha as presence here could
neither protect property in view overwhelming numbers
Communists and also
[Page 152]
rapidly falling watermark. Aphis,
Futami, Teal63 also departed,
all anchored for time at 5 miles down river clear of bar.
This ship was struck once by rifle fire last night near
bridge, no damage. All public buildings and Yamens in
Changsha being fired and Communists crossing to island where
expect British Consulate and other foreign residences to be
burned tonight. For greater comfort transferred and will
leave women and children, Italian priests, et cetera, on
H.M.S. Aphis. I have on board grand
total nine. Am escorting two Socony launches with native
staff, all foreigners persuaded to delay [leave?] except two American male missionaries.
Father Baima of Italian Mission captured today by bandits
when he made last-minute effort get out after refusing
previously; other Italians safe on Aphis at present. Consider city will remain in
hands of Communists and be reenforced by recruitment for
period at least week, 10 days. Do not feel Ho Chien can
retake or will reenter until they leave. Several officials
including Ho Chien’s brother reported brutally beheaded
today. About ten thousand Chinese have fled to west and
north. Got all Socony, and Butterfield and Swire,64 Jardine,65 N.
K. [Y.] K.;66
got most of their floating equipment except hulls out today
and down river, some at A. P. C.,67 some further. 1830.”
- “1029. City still burning, also widespread looting.
Understand small detachments Communists in civilian clothing
are pursuing remnants Ho Chien’s army which retraced
westward in propaganda work. Due to low river level relief
of Changsha will require land marching. To date Yale
Hospital, most [post?] office, not
destroyed. Socony and A. P. C. installations not yet
directly threatened but expected neither defensively [sic] other than evacuate personnel.
0248.”
