Foreign Relations of the United States, 1949, The Far East: China, Volume VIII

125.351/10–1549: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the Consul General at Hong Kong (Rankin)⁸¹

Washington, October 15, 1949—noon.

1125. Reurtel 858 to Dept Oct 15.⁸² Moscow’s 2531 to Dept Oct 7 rptd Hong Kong 5 stated Sov FonOff has no objection ButSwire vessel calling Dairen pick up Cons staff. Dept’s 1064 to Hong Kong Oct 7⁸² noted Dairen Cons staff can embark with few hours notice. Dept believes these factors constitute reasonable assurance Shansi will not be delayed Dairen beyond 48 hours. However, if embarkation impossible within 48 hrs, you authorized inform ButSwire Shansi free leave Dairen without Cons staff if necessary in view considerations enumerated ur 788 to Dept Oct 3. On other hand, if necessary and in event Shansi able remain in Dairen beyond 48 hr limit, you authorized pay demurrage other fees long as total cost diversion does not exceed maximum authorized Dept’s 1023 to Hong Kong Oct 1.⁸³

Dept emphasizes absolutely imperative Shansi be diverted to Dairen. Proceed make final arrangements urgently without further delay. Inform Dept rpt Dairen by tel

(a) Shansi’s ETA⁸⁴ Dairen

(b) itinerary after leaving Dairen.

Acheson

81. Repeated to the Consul at Dairen as telegram No. 175 and to the Ambassador in the Soviet Union as telegram No. 759.
82. Not printed.
82. Not printed.
83. Not printed.
84. Estimated time of arrival.