393.1154 (M) Andersen, Meyer & Company/1: Telegram

The Minister in China (Johnson) to the Secretary of State

862. Reference page 4, Mukden’s despatch No. 454, October 5th, to Legation, copies of which were sent direct to Department.47

1.
Consul General at Mukden now reports by despatch No. 474, October 31st,48 Antung (Chinese) electric light plant remains closed. Andersen, Meyer and Company have interests approximating United States dollars 100,000 based on outstanding accounts for equipment supplied, and closing of plant has prevented continuance of monthly payments to the American company. Repeated requests of the American [Page 362] company for an explanation of Japanese military have finally elicited reply to the effect that closing of plant was and is a military necessity. American and Japanese Consuls General both consider explanation entirely unsatisfactory, but military refuse to give any other assurance.
2.
Myers requests reference of case to the Department for such instructions or action as it deems appropriate.
3.
Myers is keeping Embassy at Tokyo fully informed.
For the Minister:
Engert
  1. Ante, p. 118.
  2. Not printed.