893.00/5–1949: Telegram
The Consul General at Shanghai (Cabot) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 19—5:47 p. m.]
1732. Shanghai police commissioner Mao Sen convoked representatives foreign nationals 18 May to solicit cooperation for emergency. He envisaged attempted looting, robbery, internal Communist uprising and implied knowledge early Nationalist troop withdrawal with internal order city now his responsibility. Suggested blocking of family property to deter robbery and concentration foreign nationals facilitate police protection.
Foreign representatives agreed delegate police liaison to small group consisting representatives British, French, US, port, police and subcommittee food and fuel to meet daily police headquarters review problems, exchange information. No garrison representative present second meeting 19 May although requested by foreign representatives and promised by police.
Police proposed deputizing foreign nationals as auxiliary volunteers which unanimously but politely rejected. Concentration foreign nationals without prospect evacuation also rejected except for temporary emergency refuge. Liaison courier service for emergency breakdown communications being worked out.
Consulate General proposes cooperate fully with committee but will maintain present effective direct contact police and garrison through normal channels to protect US interest.
Sent Department 1732; repeated Canton 496.