123 M 221/127: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Chargé in China ( Mayer )
93. Your telegram 181, May 6, 4 p.m. By telegram 91, May 2, 1 p.m., Department did not intend to question that presentation of letters of credence would evidence de jure recognition but intended, as interpreted in your paragraph 2, to convey the belief that the practical necessity of maintaining relations with the Chinese Government has already brought about a situation in which the Powers are dealing with the Tuan régime as though it were a fully recognized Government; and that there would be no advantage in withholding action which would merely confirm a relationship already practically existing.