893.00/12926: Telegram
The Chargé in China ( Gauss ) to the Secretary of State
[Received January 16—2:55 a.m.]
21. Legation’s 18, January 15, 2 p.m.72 Legation has sent the following telegraphic instruction to the Counselor of Legation at Nanking:73
“January 15, 6 p.m. Please deliver following communication to the Foreign Office in the form of a memorandum:
‘In view of alarming reports of the movements and activities of large forces of alleged Chinese Communist bandits in and around Szechwan Province, the American Legation is much concerned over serious menace to the safety of American citizens in that region, and requests that the National Government will take prompt and effective action to ensure the full protection of American citizens and their property in Szechwan and neighboring areas.’
Repeated to Hankow for information.”