Chinese government officials said today that military authorities decided to evacuate Canton as the only means of saving the city: from ruins, although it was decided to destroy the electric plant and cement works, The rapid Japanese advance after penetrating the first-line defences east of the city was the primary, factor in the decision, it was said.
The astounding rapidity of—the Japanese operations, however, added to the growing conviction quarters that the South China col. apse was a "sell-out noteworthy there has been a complete absence of Japanese bom-brings of Canton for the past ten days, and also there has been a gradual Secret exodus of Chinese - officials. Meanwhile, meagre and colourless re-Ports indicate that the Japanese occupation of the elly is proceeding '4 high British diplomatic metal, commenting to United Press on the situation, said "It looks like - dirty work somewhere."—United Press.
Retreat on all Fronts Tokyo, Oct. 21.
'A retreat of the Chinese forces on all fronts was announced in a com-
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