393.11/1254: Telegram
The Consul General at Canton (Jenkins) to the Secretary of State
[Received August 14—9:15 a.m.]
Referring to my telegram of August 11, 1 p.m., Catholic priests and Sisters have arrived safely in Canton from Shiuchow. Priests say their anxiety as to Bishop O’Shea and other foreigners still in Kanchow is due to the fact that Kanchow garrison troops have been ordered north, which would leave city entirely at the mercy of Communists. Moreover, General says foreigners cannot safely accompany troops who will have to fight most of the way.
According to the priests, National Government promised protection and Bishop insists upon remaining in Kanchow until authorities admit to him that they are no longer able to give protection. I drew attention of the priests to the fact that the Department had already urged Bishop and other Americans to leave Kanchow and said I frankly could not understand Bishop’s position.
Cantonese authorities have telegraphed Ho Ying-chin and other officials urging that troops remain at Kanchow, but no replies have yet been received. Cantonese are also endeavoring to obtain information by telegraph regarding present conditions in Kanchow.
Legation, Department, Hankow informed.