125.7146/2–249: Telegram
The Consul General at Peiping ( Clubb ) to the Secretary of State
[Received February 2—6:09 a. m.]
163. Mukden experience indicates we may soon expect visit from Communist authorities to check (1) possibility that Nationalist officials may have taken refuge Consular premises; (2) operation radio station; (3) possession arms or munitions.
In view possibility Peiping may be off air at time and Communists might conceivably make propaganda re any of three points, report now for possible future reference that (1) no refuge at Consulate asked by [Page 1055] Chinese official or given; (2) radio station will continue until cessation demanded whereupon when forced station will go off air with Consulate trying at same time obtain regular commercial facilities; (3) Consulate and ECA,16 both without Govt arms or munitions. Of Govt arms, Office Assistant Military Attaché has 6 carbines, 1 pistol, AstALUSNA17 2 pistols, and DALS18 25 carbines, 13 pistols. Some other arms held privately. No attempt will be made secrete any those arms. Possession will be explained as (1) partly custodial (AAG),19 (2) partly preparation possible self defense in uncertain situation. They will be turned over if demanded with request for inventory receipt.
This message shown concerned military offices.
Sent Dept 163, Nanking 138, Shanghai 136, Canton 1.