393.11/1131: Telegram
The Minister in China (Johnson) to the Secretary of State
333. My 331, May 13, 7 p.m. Following from Nanking:
“May 13, 1 p.m. Referring to my telegram of May 12, 6 p.m. Following is a translation of a written memorandum addressed to the American Minister by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs:
‘May 12, 1930. The National aeronautic forces are now at war at Chengchow and vicinity. Americans should immediately evacuate in order to avoid danger. It is requested that you so inform the Americans concerned by telegraph.’
The Legation will note that the memorandum does not refer to the responsibility of the National Government for damage done to American property in Chengchow.”
I am sending the following reply:
“May 14, 4 p.m. Your May 13, 1 p.m. Subject to the Minister’s approval, please transmit the following to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs:
‘The American Legation has received the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ memorandum of May 12, 1930 [stating that] the Chinese Government air forces are now fighting at Chengchow and vicinity; that Americans should immediately evacuate in order to avoid danger; and requesting that the Americans concerned be informed by telegraph. The American Consul General at Hankow has already attempted to telegraph the Americans at Chengchow but he feels a certain doubt lest telegraphic communications may have been interrupted. A further effort is being made to communicate with the American citizens at Chengchow to warn them to withdraw in order to meet as far as possible the wishes of the Chinese Government in this matter. However, the American Government expects that every precaution will be taken to avoid loss and injury to American lives and property, and, should any losses or injury be suffered by American citizens at Chengchow, the American Government reserves the right to demand indemnity.’9
Repeated to Hankow.”
I am also telegraphing directly to Americans in Chengchow advising immediate withdrawal.