124.93/1–2749: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Stuart) to the Secretary of State
[Received January 27—2:08 a. m.]
240. In recommendations contained Embtel 187 January 22, we did take into consideration factor raised in Deptel 95, January 26. Our [Page 669] intention which we strongly reaffirm is a sensible reduction in Embassy staff to level commensurate with what need or can be done in backwater which Nanking promises soon to become. Latter as probability reinforced by Li Tsung-jen’s personal approval last night transfer legal capital to Canton and decision to accompany or follow it himself.
We emphasize our recommendations were not for purpose evacuation. Orderly reduction in force to prospective workload would of course simplify any emergency evacuation for US representatives and any business, missionary personnel if such should later be necessary.