893.00/4–2549: Telegram
The Consul General at Shanghai (Cabot) to the Secretary of State
[Received 7:04 p. m.]
1349. After morning of wild rumors (possibly spread by Communists to hasten National collapse) which indicated Soochow, Kashing, Chiating and Nanhsiang had all fallen, with seizure of Shanghai imminent, it became known all 4 places still in Nationalist hands and Communist advance appeared [to] have lost initial momentum. Phone call from American missionary in Soochow indicated Soochow still standing as of 1300 today, with Communist entrance expected soon. [Page 274] Farthest known point of Communist advance is town 7 miles west of Soochow, Kashing still in Nationalists’ hands, with rumored arrest of North China Daily News editor for printing story of its fall this morning. Reportedly Government troops repulsed attempted new Communist crossing at Hupu, east of Kiangyin. If true, this is first known effective resistance offered by National Government troops this area. Generally believed most Government troops retreated from moment of first Communist crossing.
Military authorities were still stoutly maintaining Shanghai will be defended but apparently pressure being exerted by “civil and industrial leaders” and probably underground elements to change this resolve. Rumors [that] Tang En-po53 will withdraw without fighting are widespread. However, in countryside outside city limits, active preparation for defense continues. In Hungjao area servants have been pressed into labor service, trees and grave mounds being leveled, blockades erected, ditches dug and guns placed in pillboxes—perhaps on theory if soldiers kept busy, [they] won’t have time to think of running away.
Estimates of when Communists will enter Shanghai vary. Latest reports indicate Communists possibly aiming for capture Hangchow first. Reliably reported Ministry National Defense which now has headquarters in New Asia Hotel expects to remove its last planeload of personnel from Shanghai April 27. This is possible indication Communists not expected until several days later.
According some reports, Tu Yueh-sheng54 left Shanghai for Hong Kong 2 days ago. However, another source equally reliable indicates his departure was prevented by return of severe asthma condition. Yang Hu and other “city fathers” remain Shanghai with rumor current of active negotiations on their part with Communists. Pan Kung-chan55 reported packed and ready to leave at moment’s notice.
Sent Department 1349, repeated Nanking 780, OffEmb Canton 329.