793.94/8246: Telegram
The Consul General at Shanghai (Gauss) to the Secretary of State
[Received October 8—2:10 p.m.]
535. A renewed and heavy exodus of Chinese from the Hongkew and Chapei districts of Shanghai commenced yesterday and continues unabated today. It is reported that this exodus is due (1) to special measures by Chinese Government approximating martial law in districts around Shanghai, (2) to spread of wild rumors, (3) to continued precautionary measures on the part of Japanese landing party and (4) to the rumored gradual penetration of peace preservation units, wearing civilian clothes and avoiding business centers, into Chapei and the Chinese native city. Situation otherwise quiet.
Repeated to Peiping and by mail to Nanking.