893.00/12–1049: Telegram
The Consul General at Hong Kong (Rankin) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 10—4:25 a. m.]
1214. CAT reports Kunming changed hands night 9 December 1949 and controlled either by Communists or their local representatives. Guard put on airfield, immediately trapping 4 CAT aircraft, 1 TAA, and 1 C–54 of POAS on charter to CAT, plus unknown number CAF planes. Guards withdrawn temporarily unknown reason allowing above C–54 embark for Haiphong with 45 passengers, including unknown number Americans aboard. Expected arrive Hong Kong 5 p. m., 10 December. No information now re Lutkins and Knowlson but appears doubtful they aboard. Expect answer to radio enquiry Haiphong re Lutkins soon. If negative will explore other means.
Sent Department, repeated Hanoi.