893.00/14293: Telegram
The Consul General at Hankow (Josselyn) to the Secretary of State
[Received January 1, 1939—3:20 p.m.]
Social restrictions imposed by the Japanese on Americans and other foreigners in November continued throughout December with only slight alleviations in certain instances. The Japanese occupied a house owned by an American mission at Hankow and also mission property at Hanchuan, Hupeh. Some apprehension has been felt among Americans at possible tightening of local restrictions on account of reported American loan to China. About 35 foreign nationals including 16 Americans evacuated Kuling and left for Shanghai by Japanese transport December 10. Eighteen Americans remain at Kuling. An exchange of foreign gunboats between Shanghai and this area was carried out [according to?] proposal of Japanese naval authorities under which three American gunboats, Luzon, Guam, and Monocacy proceeded to Shanghai during the month and the Oahu came to Hankow. Eight American civilians arrived here from Shanghai.
[Here follows report on Japanese activities.]