393.1115/5–349: Airgram
The Consul General at Shanghai (Cabot) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 9—1:33 p. m.]
A–278. April 29 late evening American representative, Yee Tsoong Tobacco Company, reported two American employees of that Company were locked up by laborers, its Pootung factory, demanding certain pay and refusing Americans access to food and water. As Americans were potentially in danger, ConGen immediately brought matter to attention of Chief Secretary, Shanghai Municipal Bureau of Police. Understand matter settled by cash payment up to date due and demand withheld temporarily, probably until next payday.
April 30 Andersen, Meyer & Company, American firm, reported two Americans, China General Edison Company factory, 1012 Changchow Road, Shanghai, were besieged by laborers demanding two months’ emergency pay. ConGen requested Garrison Headquarters and Chief Secretary of Police Bureau to protect American lives and property. Company later stated matter temporarily settled by cash payment up to date due and demand held off for time being.
May 2nd United Press representative reported employees demanding six months’ emergency pay, and that matter had been taken up by UP directly with Garrison Headquarters and was being referred to its New York head office. He added no consular intervention was deemed necessary.