793.003/709: Telegram
The Minister in China (Johnson) to the Secretary of State
Nanking, May 30,
1931—noon.
[Received May 30—11:15 a.m.]
[Received May 30—11:15 a.m.]
Your 52, May 28, 6 p.m.63
- 1.
- British Minister is still waiting for reaction of his Government to text of article regarding excluded areas as finally agreed upon here and reported to the Department in my May 29, 11 a.m. and as to suggested exchange of unpublished notes whereby both Wang and British Minister agree to accept and sign this as well as other articles subject to approval by both Governments.
- 2.
- I shall say nothing to Wang about the matters but shall now await initiative on his part or further instructions from the Department. I agree that in the present posture of Chinese political situation it is probably better for us to pursue quietly course outlined in the [Page 870] Department’s 49, May 27, 5 p.m. to Nanking65 leaving question of reserved areas without any commitment whatever on our part and awaiting Chinese initiative.
- 3.
- Senator Pittman is due in Shanghai on Tuesday June 2nd. I therefore, propose to shift files and staff to the Legation offices, Shanghai, Monday night. Unless otherwise instructed I propose to remain in Shanghai for the month of June. I can at all times reach Nanking in 7 hours by train should necessity arise. And I can easily be at the disposal of Senator Pittman who I believe proposes to spend the month of June in or near Shanghai.
- 4.
- British Minister has asked his Government for instructions by Monday June 1st. He hopes to leave Nanking for Peiping, Thursday evening, June 4th.
Johnson