893.48g/8: Telegram
The Minister in China (Crane) to the Secretary of State
[Received October 2—6:30 p.m.]
290. Chinese Govt. as a means of raising famine funds proposed to all treaty powers surcharge 10 percent present native and maritime [Page 728] duties for one year only, on which security, upon authorization by powers, it is proposed float loan. Matter discussed in Diplomatic Corps meeting, understood unobtainable without first consulting Governments. Japanese Minister objects on the ground [of] burden to Japanese merchants and large share of Japan in China trade. British Ambassador [recommends] approval to [his] Government. I recommend strongly; although Japan’s refusal would block measure, it would be well to place America’s acquiescence on record.