File No. 763.72/326
The Ambassador in Great Britain (Page) to the Secretary of State
London, August 11, 1914, 2 a.m.
[Received 8 a.m.]
[Telegram—Extract]
323. Sir Edward Grey has conferred with me about suggestions that he says you have made through the British Embassy at Washington [Page 166] concerning the possible neutralization of the Pacific Ocean. He fears that so sweeping an arrangement could hardly be made. But suggestion from the United States to England and Germany to agree that status quo in China be maintained by each of them would be a great advantage if agreed to. Grey must consult British Cabinet before committing himself but there is little doubt in my mind about the Cabinet’s acceptance. Please consider whether our Government will make such a suggestion and inform me. . . .
Grey’s concern is to prevent fighting in China or in Chinese waters for fear of causing disturbance in China.