893.00/7738: Telegram
The Chargé in China (Mayer) to the Secretary of State
[Received October 12—10: 05 a.m.]
472. My 467, October 10, 3 p.m. Following from American consul general, Hankow:
“October 11, 11 a.m. My October 9, 3 p.m. Notwithstanding agreement for the surrender of Wuchang had almost been reached, Southern army under Generals T’ang Sheng-chi and Teng Yen-ta captured the city yesterday morning. Through a ruse Southerners passed through one of the principal gates and attacked the defenders of other gates and shortly thereafter the Southerners were within the walls in large force. Northerners in the rout discarded their arms, uniforms and other accoutrements and attempted to escape from the city by other gates which were still intact. The Northerners who had been atop the walls came down into the city and followed the example of the defenders of the gates. Estimated by eyewitnesses several hundred casualties. Many dead still lying about the streets late yesterday afternoon, and the streets were littered with discarded paraphernalia.
General Liu Yu-chun who was a refugee in the home of an absent American in Boone University compound was captured by the invading army and his fate is still unknown although rumors persist that he was promptly court-martialed and shot. Am seeking confirmation of this.
Tupan Chen Chiao-mo is understood to have escaped to this side of the river.
Cantonese are reassuring the people by proclamation and propaganda. Order is being restored. Disarmed soldiers are being given the option of joining Southern army or being given their freedom. Many are joining the Southerners. Wuchang was scene of great turmoil and excitement throughout all of yesterday and not until the late afternoon was order being brought out of chaos. Conditions much improved this morning. All Americans safe but some of their houses thoroughly searched.
Approximately 9,000 Northern soldiers arrived at Kiukiang yesterday from up river, indicating a gradual withdrawal from the region between Hankow and Kiukiang.
Although trouble was expected by reason of parades and demonstrations here yesterday on the 15th anniversary of the founding of the Republic, no untoward event occurred.”