793.94/3792: Telegram
The Consul General at Shanghai (Cunningham) to the Secretary of State
[Received February 1—9:20 a.m.]
Referring to my telegram of February 1, 1 a.m., the truce continues in about the same manner that it has for some days. This morning the firing was exceedingly violent and it appeared that the truce had become ineffective. Both Chinese and Japanese with excitement emphasized the breach of the agreement but I am glad to say it continues to obtain.
Every day the truce continues is of very great value to the Settlement and defense forces as time assists them in tranquilizing the mass of Chinese rushing into the emergency [Hongkew district?] and also those who madly but wisely flee from the Japanese to other sectors of the Settlement. The present disturbances present new and different difficulties from previous ones. Practically every man is armed and therefore sniping is evident and widespread. Firearms have replaced the propaganda circular. Sniping at present is directed particularly against the Japanese and unfortunately the Japanese are as heretofore defenders of the Settlement but as a matter of fact may be regarded as at war with the Chinese. Therefore, the Japanese sector is fast being evacuated by Chinese.
Repeated to the Legation and Nanking.