393.1115/12–848: Telegram
The Consul General at Shanghai (Cabot) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 8—8:13 a.m.]
2701. ConGentel 2665, December 6, 6 p.m., repeated Nanking 2009. Discussions with Admiral Crawford re revision of emergency evacuation plan have shown that his ideas differ considerably from those of Admiral Entwhistle99 who was in comand until December 1. I am continuing to insist on adequate protection for two uptown collection points in area where most Americans live but Admiral Crawford is reluctant to spread his available forces to protect these points. We plan to present this question to Admiral Badger who is due here in next few days. Draft of revised plan to be ready December 10; present plan can be implemented till about December 20.
Admiral Crawford wishes to have transport Bayfield come to Shanghai in immediate future with two companies of Marines in order that these Marines who are responsible for operation of plan is [to be] put into effect may familiarize themselves with local layout. He is most reluctant to reduce number coming by sending only those Marines who must be familiar with convoy routes, etc., and leaving behind those who would defend concentration points on waterfront where little knowledge of locale is necessary for efficient operations. I have acquiesced in this decision subject to possible reversal by Embassy and Department since I feel that we must accept Navy’s decisions re military necessities. I am somewhat apprehensive that arrival of any Marines may start up further rumors which might be used as a propaganda weapon by wishful thinkers and elements unfriendly to us including perhaps disgruntled Nationalists. Admiral Crawford has agreed, however, that he will limit the number of Marines ashore at any one time outside of Navy annex to not more than 100. We trust this will [Page 923] prevent a recrudescence of recent rumors and not lead to any serious unfavorable repercussions.
Sent Department 2701, repeated Nanking 2022.
- Rear Adm. Frederick I. Entwistle.↩