793.94/4510: Telegram
The Consul General at Shanghai (Cunningham) to the Secretary of State
Shanghai, March 1, 1932—6
p.m.
[Received March 1—11:05 a.m.]
[Received March 1—11:05 a.m.]
138. Continuing my daily report 131, February 29, 7 p.m.
- 1.
- The Japanese forces claimed to have advanced their positions along the Chapei front near the Paoshan Road sector after a heavy artillery and aerial bombardment.
- 2.
- Along the Kiangwan front the Japanese claim to have advanced in the direction of Tazang Village about 1,000 yards.
- 3.
- Timed depth bombs were set afloat last night and at 1:25 p.m. today one exploded within 60 feet of the Japanese flagship Idzumo. The latter did no damage but thoroughly shook the city of Shanghai. Fifteen minutes earlier another exploded quite near another Japanese warship.
- 4.
- Intermittent artillery activity continues at Woosung. From Japanese sources it is stated that the 11th Division landed at Liuho at 8:30 this morning. The bulk of the remaining reenforcements were landed by lighter at the railway wharf at Changwahpang. The Japanese forces will face approximately 58, 000 Chinese soldiers.
- 5.
- The 19th Route Army issued a statement today that they would not evacuate Shanghai or its environs. Any such demands must be referred to the National Government.
- 6.
- The majority of Chinese shops remain closed. Native banks continue to refuse to pay cash against orders drawn upon them. Thus far the position remains as it has since the commencement of the trouble, a complete stagnation of trade.
Repeated to the Legation, Nanking. Copy to Minister.
Cunningham