125.6336/2–2549: Telegram
The Consul General at Shanghai ( Cabot ) to the Secretary of State
[Received February 25—3:25 a. m.]
665. I heartily concur Clark’s 44, February 23, 5 p. m.20 It seems to me evident we can secure respect for our Consulates in Communist-dominated [Page 941] areas only insofar as Communists find necessary deal with them achieve their own purposes. I trust on this account Department will soon reply mytel 390, February 4, 8 p. m.21
I must respectfully differ with Deptel 333, February 22, noon.22 It seems be fairly well established now our Mukden consular staff has been confined 3 months to consular compound. Among unattractive alternatives I feel best would probably be given maximum publicity this violation immemorial consular prerogatives and affront to US even though our aid program will weaken propaganda effect.
In talks with Democratic League leaders in Shanghai I have emphasized our concern Communist denial communication facilities to our Consulates Mukden and Tientsin and said that this situation can only strengthen hands those in US who advocate all-out aid to Nationalists.
Department has undoubtedly considered in connection with threat withdraw Consul Mukden [that] Communists may refuse permit consular staff to leave. I assume Department may be willing run this risk as indication what we may expect in this and other vastly more important areas as yet not overrun by Communists.
Sent Department; repeated Nanking 437, Canton 95.