893.00/12604: Telegram
The Minister in China (Johnson) to the Acting Secretary of State
[Received December 30—1:40 p.m.]
941. The following telegram has been received from Nanking:
“December 30, noon. What follows is the translation of a formal note from the Minister [for Foreign Affairs] to the American Minister dated December 29. I have been notified that this note verbale was authorized by General Chiang and has been sent to all the Legations:
‘I have the honor to inform you that the military measures now being taken by my Government to settle the disturbances in Fukien Province have for their sole object the eradication of the revolt and are limited as to their character to what is necessary. With a view to the safety of foreigners residing in Fukien I have the honor to request, Mr. Minister, that you cause instructions to be issued to all American citizens in the Amoy area to remove to Kulangsu and thus [to] all those in the Foochow area to remove to Nantai, in order to avoid danger and injury. I shall deeply appreciate your friendly action in compliance with this request’”
Foochow and Amoy informed.