893.00/7–3046: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Stuart) to the Secretary of State
[Received July 30—4:10 a.m.]
1223. Following from Kunming for [from] Sprouse:
72, June [July] 28, 3 p.m. Refugees left consular premises today at 1 p.m. following receipt of notice this morning by telephone for garrison headquarters that arrangements completed for their protection. Some returned to homes and others to residence mentioned in the Consulate General’s telegram 71, July 27.8
Prior to their departure General Lu Han, Provincial Chairman, called at the Consulate and expressed his appreciation of this office’s assistance in affording protection to refugees. In most cordial manner he said he would assure protection and would assist refugees who wished to leave Yunnan. Subsequent to his conversation with us General Lu talked with two members of refugee group. According to them, he promised to facilitate departure of entire group for [from] Kunming by plane and refugees expect to leave en route to Shanghai on July 30. General Lu, together with General Ku Chu-tung (Commander of Chinese Armed Forces), and Garrison Commander General Ho Kwei-chang, reported by local press to have arrived Kunming yesterday for Kuling. McGeary [Sprouse].