File No. 893.77/1694
Minister Reinsch to the Secretary of State
Peking, April 3, 1917, 6 p.m.
In connection with American railway French Minister has just informed me the Chinese Government, September 26, 1914, gave him [Page 184] assurances to the effect that in future if railway or mining enterprises are to be undertaken in the Province of Kwangsi in which foreign capital is required an offer will first be made to French capitalists.
In view of the fact that the French Government acceded to open door policy; that these assurances were kept secret; that they cover privileges granted without quid pro quo; and that French Legation did not mention this note during conversations October last, I beg to request instructions by telegraph whether am authorized to take stand that such a secret note cannot operate to defeat contractual rights obtained from the Chinese Government in due form.