124.018/1–2549: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Stuart) to the Secretary of State
[Received January 26—4:11 a. m.]
212. Admiral Badger, ComNavWesPac,11 has raised question possible desirability taking steps through public announcement of strictly [Page 1217] neutral character Marines stationed Nanking in effort minimize possibility involvement during or after fall Nanking. He also suggests possibility similar communication through private channels to Communists.
We believe it inappropriate endeavor communicate direct with Communists but on mature consideration feel useful purpose might be served by statement to press at this time along following lines:
“In answer to inquiries, the American Ambassador feels that a clarification of the position of the United States Marines in Nanking is desirable. As purely precautionary measure in carrying out his responsibilities in respect of protection of American citizens in general and his staff in particular, the American Ambassador has obtained, through the cooperation of ComNavWesPac, the detail to Nanking of one US naval destroyer transport with its complement of US Marines for the duration of the emergency. As a matter of ordinary prudence, Marine guards have been stationed at the Embassy Chancery, at the Ambassador’s residence and the principal other places of residence of his staff in Nanking in an effort to assure protection to American lives and property during any emergency situation which may result from possible disturbed conditions in this area.
“Immediately peaceful conditions have been re-established and there is municipal of [or] other authority capable of maintaining order in the city, the Marines will be re-embarked aboard the naval vessel which will thereupon depart from Nanking.”12