693.119/378: Telegram
The Minister in China (Crane) to the Acting Secretary of State
[Received December 4—9:51 a.m.]
424 bis. Your 254, October 1, 11 a.m. I understand French and Japanese Embassies, Rome, are prepared to join British and American colleagues in representations to the Italian Government along lines Legation’s 267, September 23, 6 p.m. British Government [have] asked views of their Legation here who agree with me embargo should if possible be maintained. Last sentence of Legation 267, September 23, 6 p.m. inserted at the instance of Japanese Minister. British Legation prepared to recommend omission if so desired.
In this connection Legation reports arrival at Canton November 23rd American vessel Woudrichem carrying five seaplanes, machinery and miscellaneous cargo. Legation understands part of the machinery will be used Canton mint, part arsenal.
Consul informs Legation vessel has no export license on board but manifests signed by customs Norfolk, Virginia. Consul understands amended special license RAC–772 covers whole shipment to China. Cargo taken over on the high seas from original consignee, Tom Gunn et al., by British company, Canton, and delivered with the consent of maritime customs. Foreign Office has asked Legation’s assistance [in] prevention [of] delivery for Kwangtung [Page 752] arsenal of certain machinery of which this may be part but under above mentioned circumstances Legation knows no method legally to prevent delivery [of] cargo.