893.00/13312: Telegram
The Consul General at Hankow (Josselyn) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 9—4:27 p.m.]
68. My December 4, 6 p.m. Uncertainty Red destination continues. Main body believed to be in central Hunan. Letter dated Changsha, December 7th, states main body Reds reported to have turned back from Kweichow border for reasons unknown; also that Kwangsi troops have entered Hunan from south and Hupeh troops from north. These troop movements believed are [of] political significance. Hankow military informs me Hupeh troops are proceeding to front via Changsha. American naval authorities holding Monocacy [at] Hankow in readiness for quick departure for Changsha if necessary, although at present Changsha reported calm.
Repeated to the Department, Peiping, Nanking.