390.1115A/587: Telegram
The Minister in Thailand (Peck) to the Secretary of State
[Received 9:04 a.m.]
528. Department’s 29, February 20, 4 p.m. American citizens now in Thailand number 128 of whom 36 men and 36 women and children are in Bangkok. Of 30 Filipinos 17 are in the capital. I am of the [Page 443] opinion that the situation renders it desirable to reduce this number. I have discussed the matter with the British Minister. He shares my view of the gravity of the outlook but is very apprehensive lest news of a “warning” may produce undesirable reactions. We agreed nevertheless to recommend to our respective governments that our nationals be reminded of the statements issued to them last February. I have reasons for thinking that many American citizens are currently expecting some such notification from the Legation. The difficulties which I anticipate will confront American citizens, especially those outside the capital, may be expected to arise from a Japanese invasion of this country and/or interruption of communications because of hostilities between the United States and Japan. It is possible the Department may possess reassuring information in regard to one or both of these points. In a sudden emergency American citizens could take refuge in adjacent British possessions but it is doubtful whether long residence there would be welcome either to themselves or the British authorities. Unless the Department directs otherwise, I will unobtrusively communicate with American citizens reminding them of the considerations set forth in the circular of February 22 (see enclosure 12, Legation’s despatch 131, March 1258).
- Not printed.↩