893.00/5–1949: Telegram
The Consul at Tsingtao (Strong) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 19—6:34 a. m.]
197. Latest information indicates difficulties obtaining adequate shipping may delay completion of Nationalist evacuation of Tsingtao until second half June. Nationalist commander now moving headquarters close to main evacuation point east of Tsingtao.
Chinese Navy rapidly completing total evacuation.
Last US naval vessel left docks this morning, all US vessels thus at outer anchorage able move on few minutes’ notice. Shore liberty restricted to 9 p. m. may soon be granted daylight hours only. Reparations [Preparations] underway [to] close officers’ and enlisted men [’s] clubs.
Sent Nanking 154; repeated OffEmb Canton 58 and to Department.