893.00/5–2449: Telegram
The Consul General at Shanghai (Cabot) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 24—1:12 p. m.]
1815. Although there have been strong indications all day that turnover at least in section of city south and west of Soochow creek is imminent, we have at 9 p. m. no authentic reports that Communists have broken into city. Possibly however turn-over to interim regime may precede Communist arrival as one good source informs us that provisional mayor and chief police have been appointed. General Hu Hsing, chief staff to Tang En-po, described situation this morning as “critical”. Combined with facts reported Contel 180739 and steady movement soldiers through city toward Woosung plus other significant signs, we believe this indicates that further fighting will primarily cover evacuation. There is some evidence that Communists are preparing apply real military pressure rather than merely encourage defection or withdrawal.
If this analysis correct, city is extraordinarily calm. Police remain on duty; most shops open though many shuttered; crowds lining streets as if awaiting parade; general air expectance. Light barbed wire road blocks ready at many intersections and sandbag pill boxes at numerous important points. No signs yet of looting or disorder though traffic at times a trifle strained. City proper as yet spared serious casualties or damage from artillery or machine gun fire.
Consul General taking extraordinary precautions to safeguard personnel, also to protect Glenline building from possible mob violence, At moment, however, we feel guardedly optimistic.
Repeated Nanking 989, OffEmb Canton 530.
- May 24, not printed.↩