393.11/1057: Telegram
The Chargé in China (Perkins) to the Secretary of State
81. 1. Following from American Consul General at Hankow:
“January 24, 4 p.m. The following telegram has been received from Bishop O’Shea of Kanchow, Kiangsi:
Red armies occupy Shingkowo Nansze Chuan (Lungchuan) 50 miles from Kanchow. Reported advancing towards Kanchow. Local General has only 500 soldiers. Interviewed General, admits inability defend city. General begs you urge Nanking send re-enforcements immediately, situation grave. Bishop O’Shea.’
Have taken up the matter direct with General Ho Ying-chin at Hankow.”
2. I have replied as follows:
“January 25, 3 p.m. Your January 24, 4 p.m. Following telegram has been sent Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nanking:
‘January 25th. I have the honor to inform Your Excellency that a telegram received from Bishop O’Shea of the American Catholic Mission, Kanchow, [Page 83] Kiangsi, states that Red armies occupy Shing Chuan, three districts, 50 miles from Kanchow and are reported advancing towards Kanchow. General at latter place has only 500 soldiers and admits inability defend city. Situation grave. I accordingly have the honor to request Your Excellency to take immediate steps in order that the Americans concerned may safely withdraw.’
Legation does not feel that it can properly, at intervals of a few months, request the Nanking Government to send an army to Kanchow for the protection of the mission. In view of the chronically disturbed conditions in southern Kiangsi, I believe that you should advise Americans at Kanchow to evacuate as soon as they can safely do so.”
- Telegram in two sections.↩