File No. 893.00/2602
[Untitled]
Peking, June 11, 1917, 2 p.m.
In conversation Japanese Minister inferentially gave me an insight into Japanese policy in its completeness at present juncture. Although only two months ago the Japanese objected to stationing government troops along railway he now states it would be undesirable to make any objection to presence of bandit troops of Chang Hsun and similar contingents of the Manchurian Viceroy who has two thousand troops at Lanchow on Japanese-protected section.
Japanese Minister said that the last hope for peace lies in Chang Hsun’s mediation, whereas it is well known that the success of Chang Hsun would cause a new revolution in the South.
Japanese Minister stated that it is desirable to get rid of Parliament as it is impossible to do business while that body is obstructing.
It is therefore apparent that after the Northern revolutionary element has been successful Japan will advance a loan and expects to receive privileges desired without check from Parliament.
The countenance given by the note of the American Government to the existing Government and institutions is represented by the Japanese press as an intervention. The action of this Legation has been to treat the Government to which I am accredited as rightful authority but nothing has been done to interfere or to court enmity of substantial men in the opposition. Your note was unofficially communicated to and well received by them.