711.933/218: Telegram
The Chargé in China ( Perkins ) to the Secretary of State
[Received January 2—7:35 a.m.]
3. Department’s 409, December 7, 6 p.m.48 The Commander in Chief issued January 1 the following confidential instructions to the Commander, Yangtse Patrol and to the Commander, South China Patrol:
“In the event of an occurrence which is not in accordance with the treaties and understandings now in force, naval units in ports where no consular official is stationed should report such occurrence to the Force Commander and Commander in Chief, Asiatic Fleet and to the American Legation immediately and by priority despatch. Units concerned will be instructed by priority despatch by Force Commanders.”