Friday, January 10, 2014

72 years ago: Hong Kong's wartime diaries

72 years ago: Hong Kong's wartime diaries


11 Jan 1942: RE Jones Diary

Posted: 23 Dec 2011 09:53 PM PST

Book / Document: 
R. E. Jones Wartime diary
Date of events described: 
Sun, 1942-01-11

Day off. Walked around outside of Prison & mooched around generally. Japs in interrogating Pris's.

11 Jan 1942, Harry Ching's wartime diary

Posted: 05 Jan 2013 06:19 AM PST

Book / Document: 
Harry Ching's wartime diary
Date of events described: 
Sun, 1942-01-11

Approached substantial citizens to beg for letter certifying nephews respectable and no political affiliations. No success. Finally, neighbour's brother with shop agreed write letter and affix chop. Charlie and Fred released after lecture - "wash yourselves of everything British and dress and speak Chinese."

Before arrest were stopped by Japanese officer who questioned in perfect English -

"What sort of people are you?"

"Chinese," said Fred.

"What is your name?"

"Wong."

"How do you write it?"

"W - O - N - G," said Fred, spelling it in English.

((Following text not dated:))

We realise not possible maintain pretence of being fully Chinese. Indian friends urge upon us wisdom of becoming "Third Nationals". They have friend in Civil Affairs Bureau who can get us certificates. We agree. 

Pavements cluttered with vendors selling loot. Street stalls in Central brought under control. All moved to Stanley Street.

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