Papers Relating to the Foreign Relations of the United States, With the Address of the President to Congress December 5, 1916

File No. 893.01/97

Minister Reinsch to the Secretary of State

[Telegrams—Extracts]

American Legation,
Peking, April 13, 1916, 9 p.m.

My telegram of April 11, 11 p.m. Chekiang has declared independence and several other provinces are likely to follow. The situation is complicated and there are many cross-currents as the personal ambitions of the various leaders and cliques become involved. Thus in Canton even after the declaration of independence conflicts between the troops and rebels continue. Unfortunately as yet there is not a prospect of united action except opposition to Yuan which is increasing in bitterness. The situation Peking may become difficult.

Reinsch