793.94/9973: Telegram
The Consul General at Shanghai (Gauss) to the Secretary of State
[Received September 8—11:08 a.m.]
671. Reference my No. 648, September 4, 10 a.m., Mayor of Shanghai yesterday addressed Chinese reply to French, American and British Consuls General and handed it to French Consul General from whom it was received today. In translation it acknowledges the communication of September 4th and states that it was referred to Chinese military authorities. It then states:
“The Chinese military authorities are of the opinion that with Japan using the Settlement as its base of military operations for aggressive purposes against the Chinese Army, resisting Chinese troops have been caused to suffer hardship in every way. With a view to paying due regard to the life and property of Chinese and foreigners living in Settlement or Concession we have continued to deal with the situation with the utmost patience and forbearance. This we suppose is generally acknowledged by the various countries. Now because Japanese forces have attempted to land at Pootung, stray bullets or shells have fallen in the Settlement or Concession. Inasmuch as we are being attacked, it is naturally proper and fitting for us to take defensive measures within Chinese Territory. The responsibility entirely rests with Japan. The British, American and French authorities should be advised to devise means to cause the Japanese warships to withdraw and move out of the Whangpoo River. Then such incidents will not recur. I have the honor to indite this letter for your information and to request that you inform the Commanders in Chief of the American, British and French neutral countries.”
Commander-in-Chief informed, sent to the Department, repeated to Nanking and Tokyo.