893.00/11030: Telegram
The Minister in China (Johnson) to the Secretary of State
641. Legation’s 638, July 31, noon. Following from Palos at Changsha to Commander in Chief:
“Believe most Communists have left city. At sixteen hundred stood up to examine situation; when opposite city was fired on by Communists with rifles and machine guns. As could not safely turn around, returned fire after about 12 shots and several hits. Steamed to south of Island, turned around and returned to station of Socony. About 100 rifle and 10 machine guns used on shore believed rear guard of Communists. Known killed Communists about 30, injured unknown. Slight damage to shacks on shore where some Communists took position with machine guns and rifles, engagement port and starboard guns one hour total. Palos no one seriously hurt, about 5 flesh wounds scattering fragments. Palos hit about 100 times, exact number later; practically all steel plate O. K.; range from 1,000 to 300 feet. Do not consider another gunboat necessary. Informed Italian Father Baima now safe. Foreign residences on island, except Japanese Club, apparently intact. Jardine hulk burned last night, Japanese Consulate destroyed. Practically all gunfire by Communists silenced; used 3-inch as well as small arms, ammunitions expended later.”
- Telegram in two sections.↩