702.4193/12–1749: Telegram
The Second Secretary of Embassy in China (Bacon) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 17—2:40 a. m.]
2610. Under date December 1, British Pro-Consul, Tsingtao, reported by mail following to British Embassy:
“American Government property consists 5 large buildings: Consulate General’s house, port facilities, Consulate offices, officers club. Attached were 10 Chinese guards (ex-policemen) to look after property. We were expected to keep eye on properties but without any responsibility. We are free from any complications with regard properties as local authorities have taken over. ‘Might is right’ is motto of authorities and Chinese flag flies over former consulate offices.
All these 5 properties are handsome and substantial. Would seem unlikely they will be left indefinitely in Chinese hands. Properties have been ‘takenover’, guards dismissed after payment 5 months’ wages as from November 30. They appear to have had verbal contract expiring end June. Having been relieved of any cares about properties and Chinese guards, our work has been greatly lightened.”