893.50/5–1749: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Stuart) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 17—2:47 a. m.]
1039. [To Shanghai:] I note Department in its telegram 918, May 12, repeated Nanking 578, Canton 165, has granted you authority under certain circumstances and in your discretion to “make appropriate representations highest military and civil authorities urging protection American properties”. I am of course in full agreement in leaving such representations to your good judgment. I feel you should consider, however, Generalissimo’s present frame of mind and probable reaction to appeal from foreign interests behalf public utilities which are legitimate targets all-out warfare.
[Page 325]We have greatest concern for you and your problems in these critical days (urtel 919, May 16, repeated Department 1656, Canton 461) and would like to be more helpful. I am keeping in close touch here with my British and French colleagues who, while agreeing with me there is little foreign representations can do to influence course of war in Shanghai, yet approve joint action in any approach you may decide to make.
Sent Shanghai 586, repeated Department, OffEmb Canton 427.