393.11/1223: Telegram
The Minister in China (Johnson) to the Secretary of State
[Received July 29—10:25 a.m.]
627. Legation’s 625, July 28, 1 p.m. Following from American Consul General at Hankow:
“July 28, 11 a.m. Latest report from Changsha states that all Americans are safe on board Palos except three who refused protection. British and Japanese gunboats participated in evacuation and I believe all foreigners are safe who accepted protection. Palos will remain Changsha unless situation grows worse. Communists were momentarily expected to take Changsha, Government troops haying departed toward Changteh.”
“July 28, 5 p.m. Changsha now in full control of Reds under Peng Teh-hwai, about 10,000. Guam leaves for Chenglingki this [Page 151] afternoon. I wrote Captain Moore of Guam stating Hankow should have destroyer or other naval vessel for the protection of American lives and property here and to insure communication and asked him to communicate substance my letter to Admiral Craven.
There are perhaps 20 Americans and over 200 foreigners at Kuling and I believe continued presence Monocacy at Kiukiang is advisable. Hankow quiet.”
Commander in Chief informed.