893.00/14966: Telegram
The Chargé in China ( Vincent ) to the Secretary of State
[Received 11:25 a.m.]
398. Reference Department’s 350, March 15, 8 p.m. We have heard nothing of action mentioned in Bern report and do not believe there is any truth in it. The Chinese, as several officials have intimated to me, would very much like to obtain control of the economic concessions granted by Sinkiang to Russia and also to arrange for withdrawal of Russian troops from Sinkiang but they have not been able to do so. Shall make discreet inquiries to ascertain whether there has been any recent change in the situation.
[Page 218]I have directed Clubb41 to proceed from Lanchow to Tihua as soon as practicable.42 Yesterday, subsequent to my having reached this decision, Director of American Department of Foreign Office made the curious unofficial (but nonetheless serious) request that inasmuch as British were opening consular office in Tihua early April we endeavor have Clubb open our Consulate same time as British or in advance if possible.