393.11/1247: Telegram

The Consul General at Canton (Jenkins) to the Secretary of State

Following telegram just received from Father McGillicuddy, Shiuchow, northern Kwangtung:

“Eight Sisters [of] Charity, Bishop Dunont,78 Father McGillicuddy, Corbett, McClinont arrived at Shiuchow. Bishop O’Shea and other foreigners in Kanchow [in] imminent danger because Kiangsi Government orders evacuation troops. Advised Nanking, Hankow July 29th. No response. Wireless refuses transmit from Kanchow. Reds surround city.”

Have advised priests to leave Shiuchow for Canton or Hong Kong and am conferring with local authorities in regard to Bishop O’Shea and foreigners at Kanchow but fear little can be done at this late date. I am surprised Bishop O’Shea persisted in remaining in Kanchow in spite of danger and Department’s advice to leave.

The Department, Legation and Hankow informed.

Jenkins
  1. French citizen.