Some Chinese shouted obscenities at Westerners walking along the street, or cast angry looks. And there were a few reports of physical assaults and protesters' vows to kill Americans. Diplomats working at the U.S. Embassy compound stayed away from work Tuesday, although a few wandered over to the embassy to get a glimpse of the protesters. It's not like anything terrible has happened to anyone, but we are trying to be on the safe side. You just don't know.
Mob violence is sporadic.
Buses full of military men and women lined the leafy streets leading up to the compound's wrought-iron gate. By Tuesday, the area had calmed down, with smaller groups marching by the U.S. Embassy carrying flags and waving newspapers. Clinton's apology was finally broadcast on Chinese television. But China was demanding a thorough investigation and severe punishment of those responsible. During the protests, students threw plastic mineral water bottles, chunks of concrete and red and blue paint balls at the embassy's front doors.