393.11/1332: Telegram
The Consul General at Canton (Ballantine) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 15—10:10 a.m.]
Commander of the South China Patrol has received the following telegram from the Commander of the U.S.S. Borie at Hoihow:
“After investigation and consultation with leading foreign residents it has been definitely determined that there is no present danger from Communists. Communists have been dispersed and no further trouble is expected. Means of evacuation had already been provided for missionaries in the event that evacuation should have become necessary. Depredations of Communists were of minor character and at no time were the lives of foreign residents in any danger. There is no apparent desire on the part of local missionaries to evacuate. Boating conditions are such as to endanger lives and property, the anchorage being subjected to the full force of the monsoon.”
Borie is returning today to Hong Kong.
The British sloop Sandwich is due to arrive on 16th at Hoihow with British Vice Consul Hall of Canton who has been instructed to make a report on the situation.
Department and Legation informed.