793.94/2863: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Consul General at Nanking (Peck)
120. For Minister Johnson: Your November 24, midnight. Since the objective “in order to avoid any clash” is stated by Dr. Koo, it is [Page 565] my feeling that, “as a temporary measure pending a general statement [settlement?] of the Manchuria question”, the withdrawal by the Chinese Government on its own initiative of its troops to Shanhaikwan would be well advised. Undoubtedly the situation is very delicate, and so long as Chinese forces remain at Chinchow, it is possible there may be a clash and an ensuing conflict to aggravate the situation and to result probably in further loss of life and the compulsory withdrawal of Chinese troops. It would, I feel, be a sound preventive step for the Chinese Government at once to withdraw these forces, and I offer this only as a friendly suggestion, not as formal advice, solely made in reply to the question Dr. Koo put to me.
As to the question of guarantees, time is lacking to commence an attempt to complete negotiations which might be needed. The question of the occupation by Japan of South Manchuria will have to be dealt with upon its merits and in its entirety, upon the basis of both facts and law, meaning treaty obligations. The problems thus presented are of solicitous interest to the whole world which is struggling to solve the question. As yet nothing can be guaranteed except the continuation of every possible effort for the prevention of war and the achievement of a solution by peaceful means.
You should, by exercising your utmost tact and discretion, take this up immediately with Dr. Koo, informally and orally.