393.11/1122: Telegram
The Consul General at Canton (Jenkins) to the Secretary of State
[Received 4:11 p.m.]
Referring to my May 5 [3], 3 p.m.6 Letter dated April 28 from Kweihsien indicates almost daily bombing of that city by Cantonese planes and artillery and seven Americans residing there are believed to be in considerable danger. Letter says travelling would be dangerous but mail appears to be received and sent.
Although no definite indication has come to this office that these people would evacuate, I have sent radio telegram via Hong Kong to Kwangsi commander in chief at Nanning urging verbally [sic] armed escort be furnished to enable Americans to leave Kweihsien for safety. I am also renewing my efforts to have Cantonese commander on West River opposite Kweihsien endeavor to have Americans cross over to Cantonese lines.
It is impossible for U. S. Ship Mindanao to proceed above Wuchow and my British colleague tells me water too low in upper West River even for shallow draft British gunboats. I can therefore send no direct help to Americans at Kweihsien and must rely on Cantonese and Kwangsi military authorities exclusively. Department and Legation informed.
- Not printed.↩