893.6363/5–1149: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Stuart) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 12—3:58 p. m.]
1003. Representatives three oil companies Nanking (Wolf of Caltex, Lawrence of Shell and Chen of SVOC, latter Chinese manager) [Page 1013] called by prior appointment at Alien Affairs Office,31 Nanking, on May 7. Intention in making appointment had been to indicate early wish cooperate local authorities by way of inquiry re current attitudes and policy local officials toward oil companies. Conversation was with Chen Ying, Deputy Director, who informed them authorities wished continuation their normal activities and intended protect their properties to fullest. Atmosphere described as cordial. Representatives asked to submit information, lists properties, personnel, stocks.
Wolf, Caltex, inquired about further supplies, pointing out stocks his company very low at time take-over. He states he assured in response import arrangements would be no problem at later date, but currently depended entirely, of course, on military situation.
While SVOC and Caltex have continued distribute available stocks as usual, Shell has reluctantly refrained because soldiers occupying Shell property last week (now evacuated) prevented movement loaded oil drums from Shell property claiming this impermissible without written permission Military Control Commission.
Wolf again visited Alien Affairs Office to ask assistance in restoration oil supplies looted SVOC warehouses over occupation week-end. He optimistic some supplies will be returned, because Bureau stated would do all within its power locate, return stolen goods.
Suggest Shanghai in its discretion convey substance above to local representatives Caltex, SVOC.
Sent Department 1003; repeated Shanghai 558; Peiping 157.
- Chinese Communist agency after occupation of Nanking.↩