740.0011 Pacific War/3558: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Gauss) to the Secretary of State
[Received November 27—4:14 p.m.]
2265. Kweilin reports under date November 24 that Changteh reported in flames; that Changsha heavily bombed 23rd and Kweilin observers believe it will be attacked in immediate future with little possibility of other than usual perfunctory defense; that it is reliably reported that larger proportion Jap troops to puppets are being employed than in last campaign; that in Kwangtung Japs have occupied Canton–Kowloon railway area and are threatening Waichow; that if Changsha falls it is considered likely Japs will open drive on Canton–Hankow railway which observers believe will not meet effective Chinese resistance; and that if that line is occupied Americans east of it will be isolated.
Embassy is instructing Kweilin to watch developments carefully with a view, if situation develops adversely, to advising Americans in Changsha or any other locality that may be threatened to withdraw in ample time to safer place.