893.00/13243: Telegram
The Counselor of Embassy in China (Lockhart) to the Secretary of State
[Received October 28—9:45 a.m.]
98. Embassy’s 71, October 17, 5 p.m. Embassy’s despatch No. 56, October 25th,23 reports outbreak on October 21 of peasant disorder in the district of Hsiangho about 30 miles east of Peiping on the border of the demilitarized zone. Arising nominally out of peasant resistance to the imposition of a land tax increase the disorder now appears to have been fomented by disgruntled elements working behind the scenes. The peasants occupied the district town on October 22, set up a new administration (the magistrate had fled) and have thus far rebuffed Provincial Government’s efforts at mediation. The situation is complicated by the fact that Provincial troops which subsequently were dispatched had to be recalled because of the fear that complications might result from their being sent to Hsiangho on the boundary of the demilitarized zone.
There exists a possibility that the affair may take on graver aspects and that it may prove to be the nucleus of a more widespread movement in the demilitarized zone. Japanese press reports consistently announce that the “independence movement of North China” is spreading but reports that other towns in the demilitarized zone have joined the movement have thus far proved unfounded. The situation at Hsiangho is reported quiet and peace and order are being maintained. Should the movement show signs of spreading the Department will be promptly informed.
Repeated to Nanking, to Tokyo and Tientsin by mail.
- Not printed.↩