393.1115/4–2249: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Stuart) to the Secretary of State
[Received April 22—5:04 a. m.]
819. As result changed situation Embassy has issued following notice dated April 21 to all American nationals residing Nanking:
“Until recently an American Naval vessel has been stationed at Nanking. It is now stationed in Shanghai. Owing to a blockage of the Yangtze River, interfering with the movement of all vessels, the presence of any US Naval vessel at Nanking at a given time cannot, in the future, be expected.
The Marine Guard at the Embassy, having been based upon ships stationed at Nanking, has accordingly been reduced to a guard sufficient only for the Chancery’s internal security. It will not be available for any protective duties either generally or in connection with evacuation.
American nationals, who may have regarded the presence of US Naval vessels and of the Marine Guard as implying that the United States will furnish either emergency protection or emergency evacuation, should therefore reconsider their position at Nanking. There is no assurance that Nanking will be spared either civil disturbance or military assault. The Embassy is compelled to warn everyone that those remaining must be prepared to stay through any emergency.
Therefore, those who do not so intend should leave Nanking now, while normal commercial means of travel still exist. [”]
Sent Department 819; repeated Shanghai 411.