393.115/1197: Telegram

The Ambassador in Japan (Grew) to the Secretary of State

[Substance]

1577. Reference is made to the Embassy’s note of August 6 on Japanese interference with American business firms at Chefoo.

Replying to these representations, the Japanese Foreign Office in a note of October 3, 1941, states that the safeguarding of American property from elements, including Communists, seeking to disturb relations, was the purpose of the measures instituted; that an understanding had been arrived at with the firms concerned in advance; that upon restoration of normal conditions the guards will be removed; and that there were no detentions of nationals of third Powers and their Chinese employes.

Grew