893.00/11484: Telegram
The Minister in China (Johnson) to the Secretary of State
[Received June 9—2 a.m.]
328. [From Engert.54] Following from American Consul at Foochow: [Page 963]
“June 8, 2 p.m. General Liu Ho-ting of 56th National Division now at Yenping, Fukien, and planning to make a stand against the Reds at that place. The remnant of the Fifty-sixth Division, the only troops loyal to Nanking in this Consular District, are the only reliable troops between Foochow and the Reds. The Fifty-sixth Division believed to be far outnumbered. I would like to learn if Nanking is planning to send reenforcements.
Owing to the present uncertain situation and the difficulty and unreliability of land communications it is respectfully recommended that an United States naval vessel be sent to Foochow in order that this Consulate may have some certain means of communication with the Legation.”
Repeated to Minister at Shanghai and to Commander in Chief United States Asiatic fleet.55