125.288M/1–1348: Telegram

The Ambassador in China (Stuart) to the Secretary of State

85. We discussed informally at Foreign Office Department’s desire withdraw Siebens [from] Changchun and close Consulate there (Deptel 34, January 9). Foreign Office says military have no plans to evacuate Changchun at moment but admit place is vulnerable. Accordingly Foreign Minister Wang4 raises no objection withdrawal Siebens but expresses hope it will be accomplished quietly.

In view of above and Department’s strong feelings on subject, we plan close Consulate, Changchun, and withdraw Siebens, his staff, records and equipment within 10 days or 2 weeks. AAG5 plane departing January 14 for Changchun to evacuate Assistant Military Attaché and his effects. Siebens is being advised by letter to prepare himself for evacuation as above outlined and we will endeavor arrange AAG transportation Siebens. Incidentally this is further and glaring example of dire need for Embassy plane as outlined our 2357, December 9 and 21, January 5.6 Picard, American clerk, en route Changchun, is presently Nanking and will be held there pending Department’s instructions. We can make full use of his services here in administrative section Embassy. Suggest Department may wish assign Siebens at least temporarily Peiping from which point he can continue observe situation Manchuria.

Stuart
  1. Wang Shih-cnieh.
  2. Army Advisory Group.
  3. Neither printed.