File No. 763.72/3416
The Minister in China ( Reinsch) to the Secretary of State
[Received March 3, 2.45 p.m.]
Your telegram March 1 [2], 5 p.m. I have been informed that as Japan was endeavoring to press China to enter the war, the Allies were being sounded as to the assurances they could give to China in that event. Premier and Vice President undoubtedly see a chance of political advantage in securing funds from the Allies, but even they are less eager at present. I am strongly urging your views but am invariably confronted with the question whether the United States [Page 414] will really exert itself to enable China to resist importunity of Japan. An early determination of the attitude of the American Government is essential to save the situation.