123 Ward, Angus I.: Telegram
The Consul General at Peiping (Clubb) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 1—2:10 p. m.]
2152. Mukden office per phone today remarked VOA broadcast today stating American vessel arriving Tientsin December 11 for removal Ward and staff and dependents. Mukden staff welcomed news but Ward recommended that, if Department contemplates he and staff proceed USA by air from Korea or Japan, in view hardship past year and particularly past month all staff members and dependents be given opportunity for physical check-up and urgently needed dental attention before proceeding beyond Korea or Japan. Ward’s request November 22 for access to physician still unfulfilled. Ward still suffering effects treatment, particularly long exposure to cold confinement. Desires make more progress toward recovery and health before resuming active life, therefore suggests he be spared fast trans-Pacific flight at present. Remarks trans-Pacific ocean voyage would probably be beneficial.
Ward informed mayor several days ago he contemplates paying off all Chinese personnel December 3. He today wrote mayor requesting he be informed December 3 of date when he and staff members and dependents under deportation order will be furnished transportation facilities for departure. He requested 3 days’ advance notice of departure to enable himself and staff pay off houses, old servants and handle other personal matters.
Sent Department 2152, Shanghai 1248, Nanking 1198, AmPolAd Tokyo, Tientsin by mail.