893.00/5–2748: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Stuart) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 27—8:37 a.m.]
962. ReEmbtel 911, May 20, 11 a.m. Our information indicates rapid deterioration of the military situation along Jehol–Hopeh border. Peiping–Tientsin railway being rapidly cut and Military Attaché believes Communists about to strike at Kailan mines. These factors combined with serious transportation shortage out of Tientsin lead us to conclude that evacuation warning in Peiping–Tientsin area should be put out as soon as possible. There will be additional delay in issuance of such a warning because of desirability to consult with and secure reactions of the Foreign Office. Embassy therefore requests authorization from Department as soon as possible to issue warning to Americans in Peiping–Tientsin area that they give serious consideration to evacuation unless they are prepared to live under Communist occupation or to be completely isolated in Peiping and Tientsin.