121.67/8–3148: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in the Soviet Union (Smith)
1126. Text Nanking’s 1607 Aug 31 to Dept follows:
[Here follows text of telegram printed on page 788.]
Seoul informs use Korean vessel Pusan–Dairen would cost $7200 for 6-day round trip. This expenditure prohibitive. Expense American merchant vessel also prohibitive. Retaliation by tightening Soviet communications Japan undesirable.
Dept concurs routing couriers Shanghai–Vlady–Dairen no longer feasible, desires your opinion concerning again requesting SovFonOff permission for unarmed USN vessels successfully used four times in past enter Dairen for purpose communicate and provision Consulate monthly. Unless workable arrangement made, Dept sees no alternative closing Dairen consulate. Comments recommendations desired earliest.