File No. 763.72/8360
The Minister in China ( Reinsch ) to the Secretary of State
[Received 9.25 p.m.]
Your December 26, 5 p.m.4 In answer to your question regarding Allied powers. All favor the proposal although the French Legation has been allowed to take the lead urging the policy on the [Page 721] Chinese Government because the forces are to be employed in France. French Ambassador in September obtained concurrence Japanese Minister for Foreign Affairs to the proposal and the Japanese Minister has expressed approval to the Chinese Government. It is distinctly understood that the opportunity of firmly associating China with the action of the Allies may not be allowed to pass. There is but little doubt that a complete rebuff at this time would be most detrimental to the interest and influence of the associated powers.