Office of the Historian

893.512/430: Telegram

The Chargé in China (Mayer) to the Secretary of State

[Paraphrase]
Peking, October 29, 1926—4 p.m.
[Received October 29—9:45 a.m.]

520. Department’s telegram number 243, October 23, 5 p.m.

1.
All representatives at meeting of diplomatic body this morning agreed to recommend a third formula to their respective Governments. This would amend the second formula, which was transmitted in second paragraph of my telegram to Department, number 497, October 20, 7 p.m., by leaving out middle paragraph. If agreeable, this statement is to be sent to Chen by senior consul at Canton acting in behalf of his colleagues as being their joint action. It is to be sent similarly here to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs by the Senior Minister. It is understood an individual protest might be lodged by each Government concerned, at Canton through its consul there, and at Peking as well, if desired.
2.
The objection of the Department to any action tending toward regional arrangements is obviated by this amendment. It is thought that the British Government may find this third formula satisfactory since the specific word “protest” is not employed, though the formula is a protest in substance. This seems the best chance for unity of action in protesting against the treaty violation, and the last chance.
3.
The British Minister, in conformity with his proposal to me as described in my 513, October 26, second paragraph, suggested at the meeting this morning that his colleagues agree to try as a body, or as individuals, to persuade the regime at Canton to put under the Customs all of the collection of the new taxes, which should then be followed by the issuance of a statement safeguarding our treaty rights. This was rejected unanimously, though the proposal was presented as representing the action the British Government desired.
4.
I respectfully request instructions as soon as possible.
Mayer