893.00/8410: Telegram
The Consul General at Shanghai (Gauss) to the Secretary of State
[Received March 21—9:40 a.m.]
National forces took Minhang last night without serious resistance and this morning have reached Lunghwa Junction just outside Shanghai. No serious fighting has occurred. While reports indicate General Pi Shu-cheng79 has made an arrangement with the Nationalists it is impossible to obtain confirmation. Disorders have occurred outside of Settlement in Chapei where laborers seized arms and attacked Chinese police stations, three of which they hold. General strike call at noon today. Demonstrations now occur in the streets of Settlement but no disorders yet reported. Some disorder and firing reported at north station of railway. Workmen in industrial sections have donned red arm bands and are disputing among themselves. Municipal Council has declared a state of emergency, mobilized volunteers and police, and requested assistance of foreign naval forces for international defense of Settlement. I have supported the request and the American marines are now landing. Japanese and Dutch also landing forces.
- Commander of Northern troops in Shanghai area. General Pi surrendered Shanghai to the Nationalists on the evening of March 21.↩