761.93/9–1445: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Hurley) to the Secretary of State
[Received 10:50 p.m.]
1589. Ward reports by telegram September 11 that both Customs and Postal Commissioners state definitely that Wusu and Chingho [Page 1012] had been abandoned (Embassy 15774 [1574], September 13, to Dept. repeated to Moscow) and that retreating Chinese forces were said to be between Suilai and Anchihai. Customs Commissioner asked if Ward would give him haven. (Sent to Dept; repeated to Moscow.) Postal Commissioner expected to leave by plane September 12. Ward states that evacuation wives and children of Chinese officials from Tihwa was proceeding by truck and plane, and that many poorer Chinese families are displaying their belongings on roadside prior to departure. He says that Chinese apparently fear a possible repetition of historic massacre of Shan [Han?] residents at Sinkiang Oasis. He reports that although all possible motor transport has been commandeered by General Chu to prevent possible stampede of refugees, all those who can contrive to leave are getting ready to do so.