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

893.00/5–2449: Telegram

The Consul General at Hankow (Callanan) to the Secretary of State

Hankow, May 24, 1949—3 p. m.
[Received May 24—5:20 a. m.]

157. Last 4 days quiet, uneventful, no formal entry made by Communists.⁵³ In reply to letter from Commissioner of Police written just before Communists arrived, I sent him, just after Communists arrived, list of American properties Hankow. Same action taken British and French colleagues. Upon verbal request police officer of former Foreign Affairs Section known to Consulate General and still occupying post, a list of American and Chinese staff of Consulate General supplied. He planning submit list when turning over to new officials.

Ferry services resumed and railways being repaired. New mayor Wu Teh-feng reported assumed office May 23. Sian reported taken May 20 and Nanchang 22nd, only confused rumors re Changsha.

Foreigners here using their cars and moving about Wuhan⁵⁴ as usual. No regulations or orders have been issued restricting activities in any way.

Sent Department 157, repeated Nanking 119, OffEmb Canton 72.

Callanan

53. For information on Chinese Communist occupation of Hankow, see telegram No. 152, May 19, from the Consul General at Hankow, p. 336.
54. Wuchang, Hankow, Hanyang.