102.22/6–2849: Telegram
The Consul General at Shanghai (Cabot) to the Secretary of State
[Received June 28—2:19 a. m.]
2519. AstALUSNA SHAI 270957Z. Transmitting separately to Navy Department texts ConGen memo issued 24th announcing settlement (mytel 2487, 25th, repeated Nanking 1348) and reply employees rejecting proposal.
Three ConGen officers met 25 delegates library former BOQ 3 p. m. 24th to receive reply. During prolonged discussion principally reiteration old arguments their side and position ConGen as transmitting agency, loud mob broke into BOQ lobby, overran grounds shouting for 3 months’ pay and otherwise demonstrating force. This followed by orderly withdrawal, all of which apparently staged to demonstrate power of numbers and authority of leaders.
ConGen representatives stood firm on settlement as announced, promising payment as soon as complete lists received from Navy. Also to transmit new representations to Navy but without likelihood favorable reply. When meeting ended, leaders invited ConGen representatives [Page 1190] to BOQ garage compound to accept “thanks” entire group Approximately 350 strong arranged disciplined ranks such fashion, again demonstrating strength and control, cheered leaders who reiterated their original demands and urged prompt settlement. ConGen officers then permitted leave without molestation.
Unconfirmed intelligence reports and rumors indicate strong likelihood mass visitation including occupation ConGen premises entire group plus families relatives on pattern established other recent labor incidents foreign establishments. On other hand, have reports 6A groups satisfied announced settlement, refuse take part but these apparent minority and under strong pressure to present united front.
Unless otherwise instructed, ConGen will maintain position that settlement offered 24th generous and that Navy will authorize additional funds this purpose.
Will report developments promptly.
Department pass to CNO, ComNavWesPac, CoMarianas, BuSandA, BuPers.76
Sent Department, repeated Nanking 1372.
- Bureau of Personnel, U.S. Navy.↩