195.91/2–1049: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Consul General at Shanghai ( Cabot )86
268. Pres Fillmore’s projected call Taku Bar (Shanghai’s 458 Feb 10 passed Peiping 33, Canton 35 but not relayed Tientsin) discussed local APL reps. APL indicated no assurances recd agents Tientsin via Shanghai other than re lighterage. Dept expressed surprise APL willing assume risks without first obtaining adequate assurances re treatment Comm hands. After discussion risks involved, APL reps stated intention instruct Master Pres Fillmore offload Taku Bar cargo at Yokohama where ship docked late Feb 10 prior proceeding Fusan and Taku Bar. If satisfactory arrangements, including appropriate assurances from Comms re lighters, access to usual ConGen services, guarantees of delivery to consignees, safe treatment vessel and personnel, etc., can be completed, APL will trans-ship cargo Taku Bar. APL indicated should be able pick up Tientsin cargo Yokohama approx 2 weeks. Dept suggested APL reps instruct agents Shanghai endeavor contact agents or consignees Tientsin with request they obtain Comm assurances, preferably via direct radio communication ConGen Tientsin (his own or commercial facilities) to ConGen Shanghai for info APL, that vessel will be accorded customary treatment and that ConGen Tientsin will be permitted exercise normal functions re ship’s documentation and movements. It is Dept view that it would be preferable ConGens Shanghai, Peiping, Tientsin take no initiative this matter but extend appropriate assistance APL agents as requested by them. This course designed avoid convey impression to Comms they would be doing US Govt favor by permitting US ship discharge cargo Comm port and ConGen exercise normal functions in relation thereto, but rather indicate access foreign trade depends provision customary courtesies and indicated assurances. APL documentation indicates Fillmore cargo Tientsin consists normal commercial shipments, largely industrial supplies and equipment.
Peiping endeavor inform Tientsin.
- Repeated to the Consul General at Peiping as telegram No. 76.↩