393.1115/2275b: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Consul at Tsingtao (Sokobin)
Press reports indicate that Japanese fleet may approach Tsingtao shortly. Department feels that evacuation should precede development of a situation of emergency and that notification should be given to American nationals that American Government urges evacuation, naval transportation will be available up to and on a given date, American naval vessels will depart on that date and affording of transportation and/or protection after that date cannot be guaranteed. Navy Department concurs. Please confer with senior naval officer present and report to Department by telegraph views and developments.