793.94/11806: Telegram
The Consul General at Shanghai (Gauss) to the Secretary of State
[Received 8:40 p.m.]
1225. Senior Consul has circulated communication from Japanese Consul General announcing imminent danger very severe and intense fighting at and around Hangchow and Shaoshing and asking that foreign nationals remove therefrom without delay. I have informed Japanese Minister I am unable to direct evacuation of American nationals and am not certain I can communicate with them to warn [Page 413] of impending danger. I have directed attention to maps and data previously supplied showing location American mission and other property asking that instructions be issued that it be not bombed or attacked and that in event of Japanese military occupation Americans and their property be held free from molestation. I despatched telegrams last evening to Hangchow and Shaoshing urging evacuation. Information received this morning that Americans left Shaoshing several days ago and have arrived Shanghai safely. Small group of Americans remains at Shanghai [Hangchow?].
Repeated to Hankow and Peiping.