893.00/10–3048: Telegram
The Consul General at Mukden (Ward) to the Secretary of State
[Received October 30—1:43 p. m.]
450. Wei reported [to] have departed Mukden by air yesterday noon. CNAC and CAT suspended incoming flights today. Military using Luan-Ho airfield, normally used by civilian planes, to evacuate ranking military and their families. Government waging holding action 10 miles north Mukden permit continued use airport south city longest possible time.
No regular mail being accepted Chinese post. Only official telegrams.
Communist underground workers posted hand bills within city last two nights. General text of posters appeals populace remain calm, Communists will occupy city in near future, workers both Government [Page 529] and private urged remain on job and population warned against looting, rioting and demolition. Population promised excellent treatment by Communists. Other posters allegedly state foreign persons and particularly Consular personnel should remain calm and not leave city. Communist promise foreigners protection of property and person. Same information said to have been broadcast past several evenings by Communist radio station Harbin.
Although populace tense, no rioting or disorder. No mass hysteria. Populace resigned to Communist occupation city and actually appear eager for such event. Very little fear of Communists being displayed by persons other than staunch Kuomintang members.
Sent Department 450; repeated Nanking 599.