893.00/10–1848: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Stuart) to the Secretary of State
[Received October 18—9:09 a.m.]
1926. Altho Chinchow has fallen there is still slight possibility Government forces may change pattern of events in corridor (Deptel 1457, October 15). Accordingly we are deferring issuance warning [Page 853] until situation more clear. Should we become convinced that fighting that area has definitely gone against Government with no possibility redemption and that sole remaining uncertainty is when Communists will undertake occupy Tientsin–Peiping area, we plan issue following warning through Consulate Generals Tientsin–Peiping:
“Military situation North China appears to indicate that hostilities may spread to areas hitherto peaceful and that Communists may eventually occupy Tientsin–Peiping area. Accordingly American citizens unwilling remain under possible Communist jurisdiction should consider possible desirability evacuation at this time while normal transportation facilities are still available.”
Peiping and Tientsin please comment regarding proposed warning.
Sent Department 1926, Peiping 184, Tientsin 170.