811.22/12–3046: Telegram
The Consul General at Peiping ( Myers ) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 30—1:20 p.m.]
332. It is obvious that present demonstration and heightened public feeling not caused solely by recent alleged rape incident which merely touched off latent smouldering anti-American feeling prevalent particularly among students. (This is continuation of my 331, December 30.) Mayor Ho expressed opinion demonstration largely inspired by Communists who were seizing opportunity to inflame public [Page 4] opinion. Other sources stated participants mostly Democratic League members or sympathizers.
While student parade was on whole orderly, language and attitude became violent while passing Executive Headquarters. Fists were shaken, Americans referred to as dogs, beasts, et cetera, and filthy unprintable slogans shouted and written with chalk on buildings, sidewalks—all urging Americans evacuate China. It was strange that vituperation aimed at Army and Executive Headquarters and that parade did not pass through diplomatic quarter where Marine Headquarters and barracks located.
Consulate strongly believes affairs should not be minimized as purely student expression but should be regarded seriously as manifestation of discontent on part of a local and informed portion of public opinion both with American policy and with National Government.
Sent Department 332, repeat Nanking 269.