Foreign Relations of the United States, 1949, The Far East: China, Volume VIII

124.93/5–1249: Telegram

The Minister-Counselor of Embassy in China (Clark) to the Secretary of State

Canton, May 12, 1949—4 p. m.
[Received May 13—6:09 a. m.]

Cantel 368. Reliable sources inform us Liu Po-cheng⁴⁴ presently has total 9 armies in vicinity Nanfeng, in eastern central Kiangsi Province. There are no reliable nor battle-tested Nationalist troops to south of this concentration. Consequently, it appears that Communists have capability take Canton within about 4 weeks, if not sooner.

In order that we may make necessary plans for evacuation Embassy Office, would appreciate you inform us if you can furnish LST or similar vessel stand by Canton for movement Embassy Office personnel, files and effects to place of safety should it become necessary.

Repeated ComNavWesPac.⁴⁵

Clark

44. Chinese Communist commander in Central China.
45. Commander, U.S. Naval Forces, Western Pacific, Vice Adm. Oscar C. Badger.