393.1115/11–948: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Stuart) to the Secretary of State
[Received November 9—9:26 a.m.]
2149. [To Tsingtao:] General deterioration of the situation, plus fuel and food shortages, and for reasons which Admiral Badger will explain to you on his return, all appear to increase danger to Americans Tsingtao consular district. Accordingly, it is suggested you issue immediately warning to Americans your district along following lines:
“Military developments in North China make it appear possible that hostilities may spread to other areas hitherto peaceful, with result that [Page 876] normal transportation facilities from Tsingtao may be disrupted. Also, with approach of winter and increasingly acute shortage of food supplies and fuel, those remaining in Tsingtao may be subjected to undue hardships.
Accordingly, it is suggested that unless you have compelling reason to remain you consider desirability of evacuation from Tsingtao while normal transportation facilities remain available”.
Upon issuance by you of some such warning to Americans, Admiral Badger will plan to change hitherto permissive evacuation Navy dependents Tsingtao into directive requiring their departure in immediate future. Please advise action taken, repeating your message Department.
Sent Tsingtao 186, repeated Department 2149.