102.22/8–2249: Telegram

The Consul at Tsingtao (Hawthorne) to the Secretary of State

448. Communists recently questioned certain Chinese formerly employed by US Navy here. All released against shop guarantees but told because connected foreign military forces they must be reeducated. Some objected, saying they mere coolies and pointing out Chinese continued to be employed by ConGen. Communists replied such Chinese spies, for whom they have separate program.

Such news most disquieting ConGen’s Chinese staff.

Department pass Nanking its discretion.

Hawthorne