893.00/5–2547: Telegram
The Consul General at Tientsin ( Smyth ) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 24—3:46 a.m.]
112. Warner23a returned Tientsin yesterday afternoon from Tang-shan (remytel 94, May 2224) where he saw Commanding General Hou, 92nd Army, who said all 9 Americans Changli safe, well and Changli firmly held by Govt forces but advised Americans proceed Tientsin when rail restored 2 or 3 days in view likelihood further fighting general area. Warner sent message by Chinese army radio to Changli Mission advising proceed here soon as rail restored. No other present feasible means departure. General Hou promised to extend all protection.
General Hou said fighting going on some sections railway to Chinwangtao but confident railway restored within week. He said Communist troops now engaged total 10,000, chiefly from Jehol, purpose cut communications Manchuria.
General Hou felt Peitaiho definitely dangerous, felt Americans Should be advised not stay there. This connection marine G–2 officer informed May 21 by Chinese Commander General Chinwangtao that [Page 147] Chinese Army will not defend Peitaiho beach but confine efforts hold Peitaiho railway in action. As troops urgently needed in action, Chinese cannot be expected protect summer resort. In view above, and probability further fighting general area for some time, Consulate and Marine Hdqts feel Americans should stay away from Peitaiho (see my 96, May 23.25)
Unless Govt reinforcements received, seems probable Communists can, if they desire, keep railway almost constantly broken. Separate telegram reports effect on coal supply here and Shanghai.
Sent Nanking as 98, repeated Shanghai as 102, Peiping, Mukden May 23.