893.51/4467: Telegram
The Minister in China (Schurman) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 19—3:56 a.m.]
412. My 411, December 18, 11 a.m. Following from American consul at Canton:
“December 18, 5 p.m. Referring to my telegram of 17th concerning propaganda attacks. I shall pay no attention unless they become so provocative as to endanger American lives and property in which case I propose to warn local authorities they will be held strictly and personally responsible.”
Following from commander of the South China Patrol:
“Conditions quiet but tense. Small Chinese cruiser anchored near station assigned U.S.S. Pampanga and small British gunboat. Larger British gunboat ordered here for use if necessary, destroyers too large for this purpose. Propaganda attack on the United States [Page 575] continues, and if they put lives and property in danger, American consul general will warn authorities that they will be held responsible.”