701.0093/4–2249: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Stuart) to the Secretary of State
[Received April 22—7:51 a. m.]
822. I attended meeting this morning called by Dean of Diplomatic Corps of all chiefs of mission yet Nanking. French Ambassador read brief communication from Chinese Foreign Office Canton inviting attention of foreign Embassies to earlier communication re move of Govt to Canton February 5. Foreign Office note continued that in light of grave developments military situation making Nanking war area and concern of Foreign Office for safety welfare of chiefs of mission and other members Diplomatic Corps their attention is again called to earlier note regarding present seat of Chinese Government. I and several other chiefs mission stated that we had no change in earlier instructions to remain Nanking for time being. That seemed to be general sense of instructions to other chiefs of mission. Meeting ended with implied understanding that chiefs of mission would remain in capital. Those present were French, British, Belgian, Netherlands, Indian, Iranian, Burmese, Egyptian and American Ambassadors, Portugese and Afghan Ministers, Swiss and Philippine Chargés and Canadian First Secretary representing Ambassador.
Sent Department 822, repeated Shanghai 413, AmEmb Canton 278.