893.74/174: Telegram
The Chargé in China (Ruddock) to the Secretary of State
[Received August 27—4:54 a.m.]
302. My 296, August 24, 10 a.m.62 Summoned today by Yen63 who stated British Legation 24th informed him that if American Government insisted on execution Federal contract British Government to its regret must maintain attitude of protest. Yen also said Japanese were likewise sustaining their position and had informed him would claim damages if American contract executed. Yen expressed deep regret and anxiety to see three friendly nations thus in dispute particularly before Washington Conference. Stated that while [there was?] no question of nonexecution of contract by China latter wanted to have these other friendly nations come to agreement [Page 448] through compromise and hinted that in meantime execution of contract difficult. Yen asked me so inform Department and inquire how negotiations between the United States and Great Britain stood. It seems clear Chinese Government intimidated by British and Japanese representations.