893.00/5–2549: Telegram
The Consul General at Shanghai (Cabot) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 25—2:29 a. m.]
1821. Various reports have reached Consulate of sharp skirmishes during night at points this side Soochow Creek. At moment Communists have taken French Bund and Nationalists have established holding position almost directly below Consulate to cover Garden Bridge. Other bridges reported barricaded. Frequent bursts machine gun and rifle fire in vicinity Consulate. We are checking with American organizations regarding safety Americans. All solar O.K. Most Americans remaining homes. Further sinkings of vessels in Whangpoo but some still afloat. Power Company still in Nationalist hands, plant operating with light load.
Sent Department 1821, Nanking 994, OffEmb Canton 535.