793.94/3103: Telegram
The Minister in China (Johnson) to the Secretary of State
[Paraphrase]
Peiping, December 15, 1931—7
p.m.
[Received December 15—9:45 a.m.]
[Received December 15—9:45 a.m.]
1081. My 1077, December 13, 4 p.m.88
- (1)
- In the general opinion of foreign military observers at Chinchow, Japan will find the means to compel Chinese troops to withdraw inside the Great Wall and the Chinese regime at Chinchow to dissolve. In the opinion of Colonel McIlroy, who left here recently for Tokyo, nothing except very considerable pressure will keep the Japanese military from such action. A Japanese intention to render the Chinese position untenable at Chinchow is indicated by the strengthening of the Japanese garrison in Shanhaikwan.
- (2)
- While it is possible that those on the spot may come to share the more easily the Chinese apprehension with which they are in contact, nevertheless it is incontestable that any existing “legitimate” Chinese authority outside the Wall is a great obstacle to forming at Mukden a new Manchurian regime acceptable to Japan.
- (3)
- Chinchow observers report no offensive movements are being undertaken by Chinese troops, their commanding officer stating he lacks any orders concerning the course to be followed, but if attacked he will resist, and the soldiers themselves are busily occupied trying to keep warm and alive.
For the Minister:
Perkins
- Not printed.↩