893.00/3–1849: Telegram

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

938. Shanghai Evening Post March 18 reports K. C. Wu’s determination to resign as Mayor Shanghai. Although Wu has attempted resign on many previous occasions, Generalissimo never accepted and [Page 189] always managed persuade him to remain on duty. This time it is believed Wu serious with following factors bearing on decision.

(1)
Increased control over all aspects of Shanghai life by Tang En-po29 and military authorities and accompanying diminution Wu’s influence;
(2)
Recent resignation of keymen in Wu’s “Cabinet” including Commissioners of Social Affairs, Education, Land and Police, which make it increasingly difficult keep city’s labor front tranquil, retain city’s financial solvency and solve problems connection with feeding of city, threatened student demonstrations, et cetera.
(3)
Wu’s recurrent attack of malaria which has affected his health and vitality.

Believe it still possible Generalissimo’s well-known desire retain Wu as mayor may again prevail. If not, last vestige of real civilian authority here may be said to have vanished.

Sent Nanking 548, repeated Department, Canton 176.

Cabot
  1. Chinese general commanding in the Shanghai area.