893.20/427: Telegram
The Consul General at Shanghai (Cunningham) to the Secretary of State
[Received April 22—12:23 a.m.]
76. The following telegram has been sent to the Legation:
“April 22, 11 a.m. I have received fairly reliable information that the Chinese have purchased 50 Italian planes funds for which were obtained from Italian Boxer indemnity. It is rumored that nine Italian mechanics and aviators are now in Hangchow and that there is a possibility that H. H. Kung who is now in charge of aviation matters may replace Colonel Jouett and other American institutors [instructors] at the Central Aviation School with Italian institutors.”