893.5045/171: Telegram
The Minister in China (MacMurray) to the Secretary of State
[Received August 10—1 p.m.]
322. Following from Shanghai:
“August 7, 3 p.m. Referring to the Legation’s telegram July 28, 3 p.m. It has been decided by the naval authorities that the landing forces, except to guard public utilities, will be withdrawn on the 10th instant. After the withdrawal there will remain ashore to guard public utilities 120 Italians, 220 British, 125 American marines and 280 Japanese. There will be 980 reserves.
It is believed that conditions will justify this reduction though there are more than 100,000 strikers who are potential criminals. There will be no withdrawal of naval vessels in this vicinity.
[Page 696]There is an unconfirmed but persistent rumor that the seamen’s strike will be extended on the 10th to vessels of all nationalities including Chinese. It is not given serious credence and is mentioned only because of the serious consequence if true.”