Office of the Historian

893.801/6–2249: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the Minister-Counselor of Embassy in China (Clark), at Canton

Washington, June 23, 1949—7 p. m.

TelCan 375. Ur 635 June 22. Dept desires you proceed at once along lines telCan 358 June 20 strengthening ur approach by reference specific bombing raids Shanghai, adding US Govt must of course reserve any rights under internat law with respect injury to Amers or damage to Amer property and emphasizing the effect on Amer public opinion which large scale destruction Amer property or loss Amer lives might be expected to have. Dept studying text Chi note re closing ports in Commie areas and will send separate instrs this connection. Consequently you shld omit at this time material in reftel respecting blockade.

Acheson