124.936/9–2949: Circular telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to Certain Diplomatic and Consular Offices in China
Dept believes time has arrived when necessary delineate duties of Emb Offices Commie China and Nationalist China. Therefore, fol instrs will guide officers in China:
OffEmb Nanking already informed due staff reduction Nanking not expected exercise admin supervision over other China posts. Bacon considered prin off Emb Off Nanking.
Strong designated Chargé near Natl Govt with primary duty fol that Govt negotiate therewith and report polit matters pertinent to Natl Govt. This does not presume Strong in supervisory position other China posts as his staff small and must be relieved all admin supervisory responsibilities. Therefore, posts Natl China fol same procedures set forth for posts Commie China with no admin supervision from Emb.
(Shanghai inform Hankow if possible.)