893.00B/6–1149: Telegram

The Consul General at Shanghai ( Cabot ) to the Secretary of State

2210. Four Communist plain-clothes representatives reportedly visited home chief Chinese operator China Radio network, H. J. Sheng, approximately 10 a. m., 9th. Mistakenly visited apartment brother H. Y. Sheng (also ConGen radio operator) same building, asking him questions intended for H. J. Sheng, including nature radio [Page 1164] work, why work for American organization, et cetera. When finally convinced mistaken identity, proceeded brother’s apartment, asking same questions wife of H. J. Sheng. Upon learning H. J. off duty 9 p. m., said would return 10 p. m. Searched both apartments thoroughly, making apparently perfunctory check other apartments same building. Sheng instructed speak frankly, honestly regarding duties since no Chinese employee should have information detrimental his interests or ours or no advantage gained from false position. H. J. not visited yet although waited home until 11 p. m. 9th and 10th.

Sent Department, repeated OffEmb Canton 686.

Cabot