811.3393/1–2749: Telegram
The Consul General at Shanghai (Cabot) to the Secretary of State
[Received January 28—9:29 a. m.]
277. In conference today vital question arose of future policy re maintenance of ships in Whangpoo after Communist take-over of Shanghai. Obviously a heavy ship in Whangpoo would tend assure American official and private communication with outside world and might deter Communists from any unwarranted action against American citizens or interests. On other hand Communists might demand ship’s withdrawal and would certainly not grant permission even if asked for ship’s replacement. Although Badger states that one ship could remain in river for months even without shore liberty, etc., such a long stay would obviously be undesirable from ship’s viewpoint. On other hand replacing ship without permission would certainly arouse Communists’ screams and perhaps provoke incidents.
If we are not to maintain ship in river regardless of Communist protest, I must the more strongly urge upon Department stripping of [Page 1219] Consulate General staff as recommended in my 276 to Department, 213 to Nanking. I feel moreover that we should in one form or another further warn Americans that remaining in Shanghai may prove very unpleasant experience.
Badger informs me that he could put transport into Shanghai about February 8 capable taking practically entire American colony—other words certainly adequate to handle any Americans prepared to heed final warning. Understand Badger is also consulting Navy Department re these problems.
Sent Department 277, repeated Nanking 214.