793.94/7923: Telegram
The Consul General at Tientsin (Caldwell) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 30—12:30 p.m.]
I am reliably informed that shortly after 8 p.m. yesterday explosion occurred beyond third special area under Japanese troop train from Tangku which was not damaged or delayed. Japanese military authorities reported to be taking serious view of incident, which some attributed to students. Reports of this incident on the heels of student demonstrations and Japanese Garrison increase have caused very tense situation here.
Nankai University and Middle School and Peiyang University reported under police occupation, ingress and egress prohibited and telephone cut. Nevertheless student agitation continues; meetings reported held this morning in all schools and colleges in Tientsin; reported to be propagandizing police; no arrests reported.
Undesirable Japanese reported concentrating here; over 100 reported first special area in which many Americans and Europeans.
For some days rumors have been current of impending Japanese demands, removal of Sung and of other changes of all the important Chinese officials in North China.
[Page 183]Japanese troops arriving last night apparently about 1,250. Japanese military and consular officers now state North China Garrison after increase will not exceed 6,000.
By mail to Peiping and Nanking.