893.00/1–749: Telegram

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

62. Peace offensive continues as Chinese National Federation of Chambers of Commerce issues appeal January 6 signed by chairman Wang Hsiao-lai calling on Government and Communist leaders for immediate cease-fire and peace negotiations. Also asks national civic, business, industrial and agricultural associations to send representatives to Shanghai to form national peace consultation body which will cooperate with minor political parties in nominating emissaries for purpose conveying public hope for peace to major party leaders. Appeal states, “his (Gimo’s) personal future—his retirement or remaining in office—is immaterial. He will follow the will of the people”.

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China Press reports over 2,000 delegates attending peace rally held January 6 hear Shanghai City Council chairman Pan Kung-chan and others urge local populace to promote peace and defend city. “Peace is our sole aim and in case the Communists ignore the appeal of the people and continue their destruction work to the negligence of the people’s lives and property, then the 6,000,000 people in Shanghai will have to concentrate their manpower and wealth and endeavor to protect their lives and properties with the spirit of a blessed martyr. If they (the Communists) want peace and to alleviate the sufferings of the people, they should lay down their arms in North China first and send delegates to Shanghai to talk peace.” Pan concludes by asking local populace to contribute manpower and wealth toward concentrated effort protect Shanghai and to donate articles for comforting soldiers fighting at front.

Several vernacular papers report that over 100 local college professors will soon hold meeting to arrange peace telegram to Government and CCP and to prepare proposals for reforms conducive to the restoration of peace. Vernacular press also reports spokesman of Democratic Socialist Party as advocating impartial personages of various quarters to build “bridge of peace” between Kmt and CCP.

Sent Nanking as 48; repeated Department 62.

Cabot