List of Papers
[Unless otherwise specified, the correspondence is from or to officials in the Department of State.]
THE FAR EASTERN CRISIS
Occupation of Manchuria by Japan, Beginning of Japanese Military Aggression, and Efforts of the United States and Other Powers to Preserve Peace
| Date and number | Subject | Page |
| 1931 Aug. 20 (440) | From the Consul at Mukden to the Minister in
China Account of Nakamura incident as given by Japanese Consul General; his opinion that Japanese irritation with Chinese tactics and Foreign Office policy was growing, and that some unexpected conflict might develop into a major incident. |
1 |
| Sept. 11 | Memorandum by the Minister in
China Conversation with Adviser of the Executive Yuan of the Chinese National Government whose information was that Japan would occupy Manchuria within the next 3 months. |
3 |
| Sept. 12 (578) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Extract from Mukden’s report, September 10, concerning aspects of negotiations in Nakamura affair; Legation’s views of situation and opinion that, if reported attitude of Japanese military be true, restraint of anti-Japanese feeling might be difficult. |
4 |
| Sept. 12 (L–93) | From the Consul General at Nanking to the Minister
in China Aide-mémoire from Chinese Ministry for Foreign Affairs (text printed), setting forth instances of Japanese provocations in Manchuria and of propaganda campaign. Information that similar statements were supplied to the British Legation in China and to the League of Nations. |
5 |
| Sept. 14 (579) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Mukden, September 13: Information that there have been no important developments in Nakamura affair but that Mukden authorities appear convinced of Japanese determination to secure satisfaction. |
7 |
| Sept. 15 (L–96) | From the Consul General at Nanking to the Minister
in China Unofficial information that Japanese military is assisting Cantonese faction; reports in Shanghai press that Japan will take forcible action in Manchuria if her interests there are seriously threatened. |
7 |
| Sept. 16 (1181) | From the Minister in China Further information concerning Nakamura incident and opinion that it but expresses Sino-Japanese animosity in Manchuria; possibility that a toning down of Chinese demands upon Japanese Government for anti-Chinese riots in Korea may result; information that Chinese authorities are conducting a second and more thorough investigation of the affair. |
9 |
| Sept. 19 | Memorandum by the Minister in
China Telephone conversation with Adviser to Marshal Chang Hsueh-liang of Manchuria, reporting firing by Japanese around and on Mukden the night of September 18; Adviser’s information that Japanese military had got out of hand at Mukden and that Japanese Consul General was powerless to do anything. |
10 |
| Sept. 19 (150) | From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.) Information that Japanese newspapers published extras indicating a state of war between Japan and China, but that Foreign Office considers Mukden incident a minor clash between Japanese South Manchuria Railway guards and Chinese soldiers growing out of damage to a section of railway track; Japanese assurance that they are determined upon peaceful settlement. |
11 |
| Sept. 19 (600) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information that Japanese warship and two train loads of Japanese soldiers arrived at Yingkou in the morning and soldiers proceeded to occupy Kowpangtze; that communication from Mukden ceased at 3 a.m. |
11 |
| Sept. 19 (602) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Confirmation by Wellington Koo of reported Japanese occupation of Mukden, and his suggestion of possible League action under various treaties or possible initiation by United States of discussions under the Nine-Power Treaty. |
12 |
| Sept. 19 (603) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Account of Mukden incident as given by Counselor of Japanese Legation, who stated that Japanese occupation of the city was a precautionary measure and had no connection with other representations of the Japanese Government. |
12 |
| Sept. 19 (605) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information from Military Attaché’s office that Japanese Military and Naval Attachés state occupation in Manchuria was due to killing of Japanese pickets by Chinese soldiers and to Nakamura case; that fighting has occurred and Chinese troops in Mukden vicinity have been disarmed. |
13 |
| Sept. 19 (153) | From the Chargé in Japan (tel.) Information from Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs that Mukden occupation resulted from clash between South Manchuria Railway guards and Chinese soldiers; that a special Cabinet meeting had been held and orders issued to the commander in chief of the army in Manchuria to stop all further aggressive military operations. |
13 |
| Sept. 19 (606) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Dairen: Telephone message from Mukden that Japanese occupied Mukden at 1 a.m. and have also occupied Changchun, Antung, and Newchwang. |
14 |
| Sept. 19 (607) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Mukden: Report by Japanese Consulate at Sano that South Manchuria Railway was cut 20 miles from Mukden by 400 Chinese troops, that 150 Japanese are engaging Chinese; information that Chinese have requested Japanese to cease firing, and that Japanese have blocked railway settlement to all, including foreigners. |
14 |
| Undated | Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Current
Information of the Press Conference on September 19,
1931 Secretary’s affirmation that news received by the Department confirmed press despatches concerning Mukden, that the incident was apparently a clash of subordinates of Governments, and that, as the two Governments are so far not involved, the provisions of the Kellogg Pact or other treaties do not apply. |
15 |
| Sept. 20 (608) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Mukden, September 19: Report that all Americans are safe although Japanese fired on Chinese in International Settlement, which they now occupy; assurances of Japanese Consulate General that chance of immediate trouble had practically passed. |
16 |
| Sept. 20 (609) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information that Commandant of Japanese Legation Guard in Peiping approached Commandant of American Guard concerning a general plan of defense of foreigners in case of attack; American Commandant’s reply that present situation, involving only Japanese, would not warrant invoking of a general plan. |
17 |
| Sept. 20 (116) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Report of brief statements by Japanese and Chinese delegates before the League Council concerning the Mukden affair, neither delegate requesting action; conversation with Chinese delegate revealing Chinese preference for action under Four-Power Pacific Treaty or Kellogg Pact rather than League action, in view of Japan’s stronger position in the League. |
17 |
| Sept. 20 (446) | From the Vice Consul at Mukden to the Minister in
China Summary of events in the Mukden incident; disbelief that explosion on the South Manchuria Railway caused the occupation or that Japanese consular officials give credence to this explanation by the military. |
19 |
| Sept. 21 (148) | From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.) Request for facts concerning clash in Manchuria and for opinion on involvement of Kellogg Pact for guidance of the Secretary General of the League of Nations. |
22 |
| Sept. 21 (616) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Reuter report from Nanking, September 20: Second formal demand by Chinese for withdrawal of Japanese troops; declaration by Central Executive Committee of September 23 as national humiliation day. |
23 |
| Sept. 21 (617) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information from Japanese Military Attaché that Japanese subjects in Harbin and Kirin are endangered and that General Honjo has ordered Japanese troops to proceed there; his denial that Kowpangtze and Hulutao have been occupied. (Repeated to Tokyo.) |
23 |
| Sept. 21 | From the Chinese Chargé Account of Japanese occupation of Chinese territory in Manchuria and appeal to the United States for the preservation of peace in the Far East under the principles of the Kellogg Pact. |
24 |
| Sept. 21 (118) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Note from the representative of China to the Secretary General of the League of Nations (text printed), requesting action on Manchuria affair by the League Council under article 11 of the Covenant. |
24 |
| Sept. 22 (620) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Mukden, September 21: Report that main body of Japanese troops is now at Changchun and occupation is being extended to Kirin; that Chinese are fleeing to Shanhaikwan. |
25 |
| Sept. 22 (119) | To the Minister in Switzerland, at Geneva (tel.) Information for Drummond, Secretary General of League, that facts are insufficient but that Japanese military movement is apparently aggressive with careful preparation and strategic goal; concern of Department over developments in light of treaty obligations. |
26 |
| Sept. 22 (624) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Nanking, September 21: Report of rumors that the Secretary stated that the Kellogg Pact was not involved, that Japan had consent of important powers before acting in Manchuria, that Russia has troops near Manchouli; information that Russia has no intention of safeguarding interests in Manchuria by force. |
26 |
| Sept. 22 (120) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Account of League Council meeting at which Sino-Japanese conflict was taken up; suggestion by British representative that the United States, in view of its interest in international instruments of peace, be fully informed of the action of the Council and be enabled to take any action it thinks right in this connection. |
27 |
| Sept. 22 (376) | From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.) Departure of Japanese Ambassador, September 26, to prepare for Disarmament Conference; his information that Chinese have superior forces in Manchuria, and that both Governments are attempting to end the conflict. |
28 |
| Sept. 22 (123) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Resolution of the League of Nations Council (text printed) (1) to appeal to China and Japan to abstain from any act which might aggravate Manchurian situation, (2) to seek in consultation with the two Governments means for withdrawal of troops, and (3) to forward to the United States, minutes of the Council and other documents. |
29 |
| Sept. 22 | From the British Embassy Information of the Chinese Government’s appeal to the League and of French and British proposal for the withdrawal of troops from Manchuria, preparatory to direct negotiations. |
30 |
| Sept. 22 (75) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) Denial of rumors current in Nanking concerning U. S. statements and action. |
30 |
| Sept. 22 (58) | To the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Quotation of Department’s statement to the press regarding Manchurian affair; information that Department’s attitude toward application of treaties is noncommittal. |
30 |
| Sept. 22 (124) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Substance of Chinese-Japanese discussions before the League Council concerning the settlement of the controversy over Manchuria by direct negotiations; Sze’s contention that the dispute was within the competence of the League as Japan had already resorted to other than diplomatic measures. |
31 |
| Sept. 22 (125) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Further discussions before the Council: Chinese request that the Council send a commission of inquiry to the spot; statement by the Japanese delegate that he was still waiting for further instructions; decision of the Council to carry out resolution quoted in telegram No. 123, September 22. |
34 |
| Sept. 22 (126) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Discussion, at an informal meeting of a group of Council members, of question of an investigation commission and of an invitation to the United States to participate; Japanese representative’s request to query his Government. |
35 |
| Sept. 22 (127) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Text of identic telegrams dispatched by the President of the Council to China and Japan in the light of the Council’s earlier resolution. |
36 |
| Sept. 22 (156) | From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.) Request from Drummond to ascertain if United States will cooperate in sending an investigating body to Manchuria, or in identic or similar notes to Japan and China; impression in the Council of urgency of the situation. |
37 |
| Sept. 22 | From the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs at
Nanking to the Chinese Legation Chinese denial of Japanese acceptance of proposal for joint investigating committee, asserting that Chinese Government has never made such a proposal. |
37 |
| Sept. 23 (129) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Aspects of difficult position of Japanese representative on the Council; reluctance of China to admit a state of war; expression by representatives of world powers that their governments look to United States as chief hope. |
38 |
| Sept. 23 (631) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Harbin, September 22: Evacuation of Kirin city by Chinese troops, and occupation by Japanese troops. |
39 |
| Sept. 23 | From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.) Suggestions by Drummond for U. S. measures of cooperation: (1) An American to sit on the League Council, and (2) definite appointment of a regular “Council Committee” with a U. S. representative. |
39 |
| Sept. 23 (632) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Organization of civil governments for Mukden and other occupied cities with Japanese control and Chinese subordinates; disinclination of Chinese to cooperate. Intention of Japanese not to occupy Taonan or Hsingan areas for the present. |
40 |
| Sept. 23 (131) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Report of telegrams received by the Chinese delegates regarding increasing tenseness of the situation; Council’s receipt of information from Chinese Government that it is not negotiating with Japan. |
40 |
| Sept. 23 (633) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Reuter report from Nanking, September 22: Plans for evacuation of Japanese women and children from Nanking; statement by Chiang Kai-shek that if the League fails to uphold justice, the National Government will fight. |
41 |
| Sept. 23 (635) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Harbin, September 22: Reports of attacks on Japanese property by unknown person, of increasing feeling among the Chinese against supposed Russian attitude, and of Chinese preparation for withdrawal of troops in case Japanese troops come to Harbin. |
42 |
| Sept. 23 (159) | From the Chargé in Japan (tel.) Interview with Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs concerning (1) Japanese troops in Manchuria and intentions of withdrawal; (2) proposed commission to investigate points at issue. |
42 |
| Sept. 23 | Memorandum of Trans-Atlantic Telephone
Conversation Between the Secretary, Norman H. Davis, and Hugh R. Wilson: Davis’ opinion that a U. S. representative on the League Council would help compose the situation; Secretary’s disapproval of the character of the investigating committee and belief that the United States cannot authorize a representative to sit on the committee. |
43 |
| Sept. 23 (123) | To the Minister in Switzerland, at Geneva (tel.) U. S. reply to League resolution (text printed). Sympathy of the United States with attitude of the League but fear that an outside investigation committee would inflame Japan’s nationalistic spirit behind the military; Secretary’s suggestion that the United States (1) urge direct negotiations between China and Japan, or (2) favor submittal by both nations to the machinery of the League Covenant, or (3) consider action under the Nine-Power Treaty or the Kellogg Pact. |
48 |
| Sept. 23 | Memorandum of Trans-Atlantic Telephone
Conversation Between the Secretary and Wilson: Secretary’s opinion that Japan will never accept an investigating committee, that oriental peoples prefer direct negotiations, that the United States cannot participate in League action but can assure its moral support. |
49 |
| Sept. 23 | Memorandum by the Secretary of State Copy of League Council resolution and of U. S. reply handed to Japanese Ambassador. |
52 |
| Sept. 23 (133) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Letter from the Japanese representative on the Council to the Secretary General (text printed) setting forth events in Manchuria from September 18 to 21; information that League members not represented on the Council plan to indorse Council’s action. |
52 |
| Sept. 23 | Memorandum by Mr. Ransford S. Miller of the Division
of Far Eastern Affairs Call from Mr. Kato of the Japanese Embassy with copy of telegram from the Japanese Foreign Office, apparently the same as letter delivered to the League Council; Kato’s intimation that situation in Japan is difficult. |
54 |
| Sept. 23 | From the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs at
Nanking to the Chinese Legation Chinese report of South Manchuria Railway bridge incident and contention of evidence of Japanese responsibility. |
54 |
| Sept. 24 (640) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Reuter report from Nanking, September 23: Denial by Marshal Chang Hsueh-liang of reports of Soviet troop movements on the border but report of Russian protest to Japanese Consul against hindrance of operation of Chinese Eastern Railway; news that League’s action regarding Manchuria had calming effect on anti-Japanese feeling, but that Chinese demand mobilization. |
55 |
| Sept. 24 | Memorandum by the Secretary of State Call from the Japanese Ambassador in regard to Secretary’s proposed note to Japan and to China; Ambassador’s opinion that Japanese forces were beginning to withdraw and that definite news might come soon. |
55 |
| Sept. 24 | Memorandum by the Secretary of
State Explanation to the Japanese Ambassador that a radio station built by the Radio Corporation of America had been destroyed at Mukden, September 19, creating the impression that Japan was trying to cut off communication with Manchuria. |
56 |
| Sept. 24 (642) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Mukden, September 23: Report of Japanese reinforcements and activity of Japanese aircraft, of occupation of Chengchiatun, Tungliao, and Taonan, and of preparations to move on Harbin. |
56 |
| Sept. 24 (159) | From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.) Information from Drummond that proposed commission, with two neutrals named by China, two by Japan, and three by the Council, is intended merely as a fact-finding body; inquiry whether Secretary would agree to the nomination of an American if Japan accepts. |
57 |
| Sept. 24 (385) | From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.) Views of Lord Reading that the Manchurian situation is less disquieting, that Russia considers it local but would be concerned if the Japanese indicate the pursuance of a plan of conquest. |
57 |
| Sept. 24 (340) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Text of identic note to Japan and China to be communicated to the Chinese Minister for Foreign Affairs. (Footnote: The same, mutatis mutandis, to the Chargé in Japan.) |
59 |
| Sept. 24 (126) | To the Minister in Switzerland, at Geneva (tel.) Information concerning presentation of the identic notes to Japan and China and to their representatives in Washington; instructions to inform the President of the Council. |
59 |
| Sept. 24 (137) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Discussion before the Council of the sending of investigating commission to Manchuria; agreement of Japanese representative to consult his Government concerning proposal. Chinese information that the Japanese have advanced within the Great Wall. |
59 |
| Sept. 24 (127) | To the Minister in Switzerland, at Geneva (tel.) Secretary’s preference not to decide about American membership on the proposed investigating commission until actual acceptance by China and Japan of some proposal. Instructions to inform Drummond. |
60 |
| Sept. 24 (138) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Statements before the Assembly of the League by the President of the Council and the President of the Assembly. |
61 |
| Sept. 24 (161) | From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.) Letter from the President of the Council (text printed) acknowledging Secretary’s message contained in telegram No. 123, September 23, and stating that the Council has no preconceived method for solving the difficulties, but believes that through common endeavor a successful result is most likely to be achieved. |
62 |
| Sept. 25 | Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State of a
Conversation With the British Chargé, September 24,
1931 Explanation by the Under Secretary of the Department’s views on the settlement of the Manchurian situation. |
63 |
| Sept. 25 | Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State of a
Conversation With the Japanese Ambassador, September 24,
1931 Japanese Ambassador’s reference to misunderstandings about the Manchurian situation; his assertion that the appointment by the military of a Japanese as mayor of Mukden had been disavowed by the Japanese Government. |
64 |
| Sept. 25 (68) | From the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) Inquiry concerning Associated Press despatch that the Secretary had informed the Japanese Ambassador that, in the light of Department’s information, serious responsibility must rest with Japan for events in Manchuria. |
64 |
| Sept. 25 (140) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Reply of Japanese Government (text printed) to Council’s identic telegram, justifying action as for security and protection, avowing intentions of pacific settlement, and declaring the withdrawal of most troops into the railway zone. |
64 |
| Sept. 25 (165) | From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.) Inquiry by the Chinese Minister to Great Britain concerning Department’s attitude on Manchuria, and Minister’s reply that any attempt on his part to interpret its views might create confusion. |
65 |
| Sept. 25 (161) | From the Chargé in Japan (tel.) Delivery of Department’s identic note to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, who desired that it not be published and thought a commission of investigation was unnecessary; discussions with British and French Ambassadors regarding their positions; information that Russia’s interest was only in connection with the Chinese Eastern Railway. |
66 |
| Sept. 25 | Memorandum by the Under Secretary of
State Discussion with Japanese Ambassador, whose information was that the Government was now largely under civilian control and that the situation would improve; his feeling that an investigation committee would retard the restoration of the status quo ante; advice by the Under Secretary that Japan should act quickly, that from the U. S. viewpoint there was treaty violation, and that Russia might befriend China. |
67 |
| Sept. 25 | To the Chinese Chargé Acknowledgment of Chargé’s note of September 21 and reference to steps already taken by U. S. Government. |
69 |
| Sept. 25 (79) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) Accurate text of the Secretary’s statement referred to in the Consul General’s telegram No. 68, September 25. |
69 |
| Sept. 25 | Press Release Issued by the Chinese Ministry of
Foreign Affairs Denial of treaty foundation for the stationing by Japan of troops on the South Manchuria Railway; estimation that Japanese troops in Manchuria exceed 50,000. |
69 |
| Sept. 26 (141) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Feeling among small states that Sino-Japanese situation is a test case for the League, and failure would mean discredit on future conciliatory and security measures and disarmment. |
70 |
| Sept. 26 (142) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Statements by Japanese and Chinese representatives before the Council concerning the policies of their Governments and the present location of troops in Manchuria. |
72 |
| Sept. 26 (668) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Reports from Peiping-Mukden Railway employee of the death of two passengers when a Japanese airplane fired on a train. |
74 |
| Sept. 26 (449) | From the Consul General at Mukden to the Minister in
China Summary of the extent of Japanese occupation; aspects of governmental problems and of the railway incident of September 18 as immediate pretext for the occupation; memorandum (text printed) by the Consul at Mukden of a Japanese-conducted visit to the scene of the railway explosion. |
74 |
| Sept. 27 (73) | From the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) Reports through Chinese officials at Geneva of the disappointment among League Council members at the wording of the U. S. communications to Japan and China; information that the scope of Japanese occupation is being extended. |
80 |
| Sept. 27 | From the Chinese Chargé Reply of Chinese Government (text printed) to the U. S. identic note of September 24, expressing gratitude at U. S. attitude and hope that measures will be taken to maintain the inviolability of treaties. |
81 |
| Sept. 28 (131) | To the Minister in Switzerland, at Geneva (tel.) Approval of Minister’s course as indicated in his telegram No. 165, September 25. |
82 |
| Sept. 28 (162) | From the Chargé in Japan (tel.) Opinion that there is little chance of an arrangement with Japan other than for direct negotiations, that the Japanese want a settlement of a number of outstanding issues. |
82 |
| Sept. 28 (675) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Nanking: Reports of student demonstration against the Minister for Foreign Affairs for his alleged friendship for Japan. |
84 |
| Sept. 28 (80) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) Message of solicitude for the Minister for Foreign Affairs. |
84 |
| Sept. 28 (175) | To the Chargé in Japan (tel.) Secretary’s request of Debuchi, in view of the absence of Consul General at Mukden, that American diplomatic representatives from Tokyo and Harbin be allowed to visit Manchuria and report on situation there; instructions to make the same request of Baron Shidehara. |
85 |
| Sept. 28 | From the Consul at Dairen to the Chargé in
Japan Observations on the Japanese occupation—circumstances, economic causes, and effects. |
85 |
| Sept. 29 (144) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Reiteration of Japanese and Chinese positions before the League Council and discussion of Chinese proposal that a commission be organized on the spot to arrange for the withdrawal of troops. |
88 |
| Sept. 29 (677) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Estimate of Japanese troops and reservists in Manchuria. |
89 |
| Sept. 29 (165) | From the Chargé in Japan (tel.) Estimate of Japanese troops in Manchuria, including railway guards. |
89 |
| Sept. 29 (166) | From the Chargé in Japan (tel.) Japanese nonobjection to visit of American representatives to Manchuria; plans for journey of Hanson and Salisbury. |
90 |
| Sept. 29 (177) | To the Chargé in Japan (tel.) Instructions for Hanson and Salisbury to report on extent of Japanese occupation in light of treaty rights, form of civil administration, damage to R. C. A. radio station, attitude of Chinese in Manchuria, and Japanese intentions of withdrawal. |
91 |
| Sept. 30 (680) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Mukden: Report of election of provisional government at Kirin and conditions in Mukden. |
92 |
| Sept. 30 (149) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Text of Chinese compromise proposal for a commission on the spot. |
93 |
| Sept. 30 (683) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Resignation of C. T. Wang and appointment of Alfred Sze as Foreign Minister. |
94 |
| Sept. 30 | Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State of a
Conversation With the Counselor of the French Embassy. September 28,
1931 Accord of French Government with Department’s attitude and policy. |
94 |
| Sept. 30 (1201) | From the Minister in China Aspects of Japanese news report of alleged warning of the Minister to the Japanese Counselor of Legation in a conversation, September 17, concerning Japan’s intentions in Manchuria (memorandum of conversation printed). |
94 |
| Oct. 1 (150) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Statement by President of League Council that Council has recognized importance of withdrawal of Japanese troops into the railway zone and the time element involved; Council’s adoption of resolution to meet again on October 14 to consider situation as it then stands. |
96 |
| Oct. 1 (151) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Views of Drummond on the happenings in the Council; his information that the Chinese have threatened an alliance with Russia, but that the Japanese anticipate no difficulty there; feeling that Chinese should act with independence during the adjustment period ahead. |
98 |
| Oct. 1 (686) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Report that Mukden trains are in service but not safe and that some communications are functioning. |
100 |
| Oct. 1 (170) | From the Chargé in Japan (tel.) Information from Japanese General Staff as to distribution of Japanese troops. |
100 |
| Oct. 1 | Memorandum by the Secretary of
State Information from Japanese Ambassador that the tour of Manchuria by American representatives was welcome and would be facilitated by authorities, including the military. |
100 |
| Oct. 1 | Memorandum by the Under Secretary of
State Denial by Japanese Ambassador of censorship of communications from Manchuria, of bombing of trains, or inciting of Separatist movement; assertion that only “dispatch line” was out of commission at R. C. A. station. |
101 |
| Oct. 2 (687) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Lt. Brown, Mukden: Report that occupation is essentially unchanged, that Japanese treat with prominence Chinese move for provisional government; that normal economic conditions are not in evidence. |
102 |
| Oct. 2 | Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Far
Eastern Affairs of a Conversation With Colonel Manton Davis of the
Radio Corporation of America Information from Colonel Davis that Japanese have demanded a copy of the R. C. A. Chinese contract for the operation of the station at Mukden and intend to operate it themselves; request of Colonel Davis for advice. |
102 |
| Oct. 2 (691) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Nanking: Consul General’s conversations with T. V. Soong and the Acting Foreign Minister; their opinion that China would treat directly with Japan if all Japanese troops were withdrawn to the railway zone. |
104 |
| Oct. 2 | From the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs at
Nanking to the Chinese Legation Report that Japan, making use of an organization formed by Yuan Chin-kai, is inciting Manchuria to set up an independent government. |
106 |
| Oct. 2 (693) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information from Mukden that Japanese are misrepresenting situation, that Yuan Chin-kai has refused to organize independent government, and that Japanese purpose is to eliminate Chang Hsueh-liang’s influence. |
107 |
| Oct. 3 | From the Consul General at Mukden (tel.) Information that Japanese report radio station undamaged but have not reestablished service in spite of representations. |
107 |
| Oct. 3 (181) | To the Chargé in Japan (tel.) Instructions to confer with Foreign Office concerning the reopening of the radio station. |
107 |
| Oct. 3 | Memorandum by the Secretary of
State Conversation with the Japanese Ambassador, who was informed of the reports from Mukden on the government situation and of the Chinese willingness to negotiate when the Japanese withdrew to the railway zone; Secretary’s opinion that they should get out at once. |
108 |
| Oct. 3 (358) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Instructions to inform Chinese Government of the observation tour to be made by Hanson and Salisbury. |
109 |
| Oct. 3 (182) | To the Chargé in Japan (tel.) Account of morning conversation with the Japanese Ambassador and instructions to pursue same viewpoint with Shidehara. |
110 |
| Oct. 3 (63) | To the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Instructions to inform Drummond of observation tour to be made by Hanson and Salisbury. |
110 |
| Oct. 4 (697) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From the Acting Foreign Minister in Nanking: Invitation to the United States, as to other powers, to send representatives to Manchuria to collect information on the progress of evacuation. |
111 |
| Oct. 4 (698) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Transmittal to Nanking of Department’s instructions (contained in telegram No. 358, October 3), with instructions to avoid giving the impression that the tour of observation is in answer to Chinese request. |
112 |
| Oct. 4 | From the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs at
Nanking to the Chinese Legation Report of Chinese arrangements for receipt of vacated territory and preservation of order. |
112 |
| Oct. 5 (702) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Mukden: Entrance of Japanese into Newchwang following bandit attack. |
112 |
| Oct. 5 (703) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Nanking: Summary of assertions by Chairman of Foreign Affairs Committee that Japanese military planned occupation to regain popular favor in Japan and will not withdraw before October 14. |
113 |
| Oct. 5 (175) | From the Chargé in Japan (tel.) Conversation with Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs, who gave the impression that Japanese are awaiting word from Chinese before acting in Manchuria, that withdrawal of troops depends upon Chinese safety guarantees, and that Japanese business interests in China are suffering. |
113 |
| Oct. 5 (707) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Discussion by Chiefs of Missions of Chinese request for foreign observers. |
115 |
| Oct. 5 (361) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Reply for Acting Foreign Minister (substance printed) that the United States has already arranged for two officers to observe and report on developments. |
115 |
| Oct. 5 (64) | To the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Gratification over Council’s obtaining consent of Japan and China to its resolution of September 30; reiteration of U. S. interest and promise to cooperate as much as possible. |
116 |
| Oct. 5 (362) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Instructions for Nanking to inform T. V. Soong and Vice Minister Lee of attention given situation by the Department, of its cooperation with the League so far as possible, and of its gratification for September 30 resolution. (Sent also to the Embassy in Japan.) |
117 |
| Oct. 5 (363) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Instructions for the Minister to proceed to Nanking. |
118 |
| Oct. 5 (454) | From the Consul General at Mukden Report of the effects of the Japanese occupation on American interests in Manchuria. |
118 |
| Oct. 6 (708) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Nanking: Statement by Soong (text printed) indicating that Japan is maintaining troops outside railway zone at any excuse and hopes for pretext to extend occupation, and expressing hope that United States may act to ensure withdrawal of Japanese troops. |
126 |
| Oct. 6 | From the American Consul General at Mukden to the
Japanese Consul General at Mukden Request for adequate protection of Americans against banditry. |
127 |
| Oct. 6 | From the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs at
Nanking to the Chinese Legation Arrival of a fleet of Japanese warships at Shanghai and report of more to come. |
127 |
| Oct. 7 (719) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Nanking: Report of Japanese demand that Chinese stop boycott or Japan will adopt forcible measures. |
128 |
| Oct. 7 (160) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Drummond’s hope for presence of more Foreign Ministers at a possible Council meeting, October 14; reference to Sze’s desire to use the term “reestablishment of the status quo ante” and other demands for settling Manchurian controversy; speculation on procedure should Japan prove recalcitrant. |
128 |
| Oct. 7 (161) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Request by Drummond for differentiation between information meant by the Department only for him and information intended for Council members. |
130 |
| Oct. 7 | From the Vice Consul at Harbin (tel.) Report from Hanson of Chinese killed and wounded and of the control of Chinese and Chinese Eastern Railway police by Japanese gendarmes. |
132 |
| Oct. 7 | Memorandum by the Under Secretary of
State Conversation with Japanese Ambassador, who denied that Japan would retaliate for the boycott; expression of concern by the Under Secretary over increasing tenseness of the situation. |
132 |
| Oct. 7 (723) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Nanking: Assertions by Soong and statement (text printed) of control in Japan by the military and its intentions in Manchuria; opinion that Japan would not oppose a firm U. S. attitude; hope for U. S. stand to bring withdrawal of troops. |
134 |
| Oct. 7 (364) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Information that representations have been made to Japan concerning radio station. Instructions for Mukden to report everything pertinent and act only on instructions. |
135 |
| Oct. 7 (67) | To the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Instructions to inform Drummond of text of Department’s No. 64, October 5. |
136 |
| Oct. 7 (365) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Instructions to inform Soong that his communications are receiving careful consideration and that Department feels Japan and China should now be given an opportunity to carry out their commitments. |
136 |
| Oct. 7 (724) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Report of potentialities of the situation and of danger of some incident resulting in Japanese move in Yangtze Valley; suggestion of pressure on Tokyo to relieve present conditions and restore Chinese control in Manchuria. |
136 |
| Oct. 8 | Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Far
Eastern Affairs Conversation of the Secretary and the Chinese Chargé in which Secretary stated Department’s position and stressed the fact that its action was not to take sides but to proceed along the lines most conducive to the keeping of peace. |
137 |
| Oct. 8 | Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Far
Eastern Affairs of a Conversation With the Counselor of the British
Embassy Discussion of Chinese request for observers in Manchuria; Counselor’s opinion that his Government wanted to send observers for its own information. |
139 |
| Oct. 8 (727) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Report from Hanson and Salisbury at Changchun of the fighting at Nanling and Kuanchengtze on September 19, and at Kirin-Changchun Railway powerhouse on September 30; review of resulting situations. |
140 |
| Oct. 8 (728) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Nanking: Information that report of Japan’s intentions to land forces and bombard Nanking is taken seriously by Chinese Government; request for information. |
143 |
| Oct. 8 (368) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Reply for Nanking that Japanese Ambassador stated it was unthinkable that Japan would bombard Nanking. |
143 |
| Oct. 8 (729) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Young Marshal’s office: Report of bombing of Chin-chow by Japanese airplanes. |
143 |
| Oct. 9 (733) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Mukden: Dispatch of planes to Chinchow by Japanese commander in chief with leaflets containing virtual ultimatum to Chinchow Government. |
144 |
| Oct. 9 (734) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Message from Nanking that Department’s message of October 5 (telegram No. 362) was delivered to Acting Foreign Minister Lee, who seemed reassured and said he would inform the special diplomatic commission. |
144 |
| Oct. 9 (165) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Request by Sze, in the light of further Japanese provocations, for a meeting of the Council prior to October 14; Drummond’s hesitancy in view of conflicting reports and the lack of “neutral” information. |
144 |
| Oct. 9 (166) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Drummond’s proposal to send identic telegrams to Japan and China reminding them of their commitments in the hope that publicity of these will quiet Chinese public opinion; Drummond’s belief that an earlier meeting of the Council will, be held and his desire for “neutral” information. |
145 |
| Oct. 9 (70) | To the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Instructions to inform Drummond that the Secretary trusts he intends to advise calling the meeting of the Council. |
146 |
| Oct. 9 (372) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Instructions to inform Nanking of Secretary’s conversation with Chinese Chargé October 8. |
146 |
| Oct. 9 | From the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs at
Nanking to the Chinese Legation Report of Japanese airplane attack on Chinchow, provincial capital since the occupation of Mukden. |
147 |
| Oct. 9 (167) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Text of identic telegrams from the Council to China and Japan. |
147 |
| Oct. 9 (179) | From the Chargé in Japan (tel.) Conversation with the Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs, who stated that Japanese Government has addressed a note to Nanking Government in view of treatment of Japanese in China, and is dispatching two cruisers to the Yangtze. |
147 |
| Oct. 9 (168) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Information that Council will meet on October 13, probably with Reading and Briand attending. |
148 |
| Oct. 9 | From the Japanese Consul General at Mukden to the
American Consul General at Mukden Information that Japanese military authorities have been requested to furnish adequate protection to American interests. |
149 |
| Oct. 9 | From the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs at
Nanking to the Chinese Legation Second note to the Japanese Government (text printed) concerning the reestablishment of Chinese Government in Manchuria. Request that Department be asked to authorize its representatives to accompany units occupying evacuated territories. |
149 |
| Oct. 10 (735) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Report from Hanson and Salisbury via Harbin of withdrawal of Japanese soldiers from Tunhua and Kirin-Tunhua Railway, October 5. |
150 |
| Oct. 10 | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Nanking: Desire of Chinese leaders to have U. S. observer at meeting of the Council. |
151 |
| Oct. 10 (736) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Japanese memorandum for the Chinese Government (text printed) proclaiming anti-Japanese movement in China a form of hostile act contrary to all standards of justice and friendship and declaring Chinese Government responsible for any consequences. |
151 |
| Oct. 10 (87) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) Concern of Secretary over reports of the situation, and instructions to inform Acting Foreign Minister, impressing upon him the necessity for self-restraint on the part of both nations. |
152 |
| Oct. 10 (738) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Mukden: Opinion orally stated to Japanese Consulate General that present situation does not justify its request for a copy of the R. C. A.-Chinese Government agreement. Legation’s reminder to Mukden of Department’s instructions, and request to Department for further instructions. |
153 |
| Oct. 10 (78) | To the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Instructions to inform Drummond of assumption that Council will meet by October 14 to consider Sino-Japanese situation, of Department’s concern, and of probable imminence of resorting to Anti-War Pact. |
154 |
| Oct. [11] (740) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Telegram from the Acting Foreign Minister, October 9 (text printed), reporting Japanese attack on Chinchow and requesting the delegation of an American to participate in an investigation requested of the League’s missions. |
154 |
| Oct. 11 (172) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Request from Drummond that, as Department’s reports are more complete than any at his disposal, he be permitted to convey the information to Council members as Department’s, confidentially or otherwise. |
155 |
| Oct. 11 (388) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Urgent instructions to obtain complete report on the bombing of Chinchow. |
157 |
| Oct. 11 (180) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Information that Council meeting called for October 13 will deal solely with Sino-Japanese question, with probable emphasis on execution by each country of its commitments. |
157 |
| Oct. 12 (181) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Note from Japanese delegation in Paris (text printed) defining Japanese attitude and proposing its readiness for direct negotiations for settlement of fundamental points before withdrawal of troops. |
158 |
| Oct. 12 (83) | To the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Explanation for Drummond of unwillingness for him to disclose Department as a source of information, as such disclosure might hinder U. S. observers in Manchuria; probability that reports from different sources will vary and that revelation of such sources will encourage controversy. |
159 |
| Oct. 12 (182) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Message from Japanese Government to the Council members (text printed) reiterating its attitude toward direct negotiations and placing responsibility for improvement in the situation on Chinese sincerity in considering Japanese note of October 9. |
160 |
| Oct. 12 (183) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Message from Japanese Government to the Council members (text printed) citing instances of Japanese evacuation from consulates and establishments in China as result of anti-Japanese movement. |
161 |
| Oct. 12 (389) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Instructions for Mukden: Inquiry regarding developments pertaining to radio station; reiteration of instructions and desire for full report. |
162 |
| Oct. 12 | From the Consul General at Shanghai (tel.) Review of tense conditions in the International Settlement due to Japanese show of military forces and Chinese complete boycott. |
163 |
| Oct. 12 (747) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Nanking: Consul General’s interview with Minister of Industries, who referred to information that, upon Japan’s denial of territorial ambitions, the United States had discouraged intervention by other countries, and who asked what would be the U. S. attitude if Japan evinced no intention of carrying out commitments. |
164 |
| Oct. 12 | Memorandum by the Under Secretary of
State Secretary’s oral suggestion to the French Ambassador to inform Briand that if the League called the attention of Japan and China to the Kellogg Pact obligations, the United States would act concurrently; Ambassador’s opinion that Japan had gone too far, but that it had endured much in Manchuria. |
164 |
| Oct. 12 | Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State of a
Conversation With the Japanese Ambassador Ambassador’s explanation of Japanese attitude toward bombing of Chinchow and acts of Japanese military; his assertion of Japanese peaceful intentions. Under Secretary’s advice that American public opinion was turning against Japan. |
165 |
| Oct. 12 (85) | To the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Suggestion for Drummond that independent invocation of the Kellogg Pact in Washington might embarrass the work of the League; opinion that value of the Pact is in mobilizing world public opinion against breach of peace. |
167 |
| Oct. 12 (748) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Report that Col. Margetts and Lt. Brown will investigate Chinchow incident. |
168 |
| Oct. 12 (186) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Messages from Chinese Government to Council members (texts printed) reporting Japanese movements and destruction. |
168 |
| Oct. 12 (749) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Nanking: Report of delivery of Department’s message of October 10 to Acting Foreign Minister, who inquired what failure by China to execute commitments was referred to. |
169 |
| Oct. 12 (750) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Nanking: Information from Soong that although the Japanese had proposed that the two Governments announce representatives to discuss matters in Manchuria, they had not replied to Chinese inquiry for particulars. |
169 |
| Oct. 13 (754) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Hanson and Salisbury: Report of events and situation at Kirin and Tunhwa, with opinion that pretexts motivating Japanese action were not justified. |
170 |
| Oct. 13 (183) | From the Chargé in Japan (tel.) Report that Japanese Government is handicapped as General Staff is not subordinate to Minister of War. Belief that final settlement rests with China and Japan themselves. |
174 |
| Oct. 13 (88) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) Transmittal to the Minister of Department’s press statement of October 11 (text printed) which quoted the communication to the Secretary General of the League outlining U. S. action as independent with an endeavor to reinforce League action. |
175 |
| Oct. 13 (86) | To the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Instructions to discuss with Drummond the possibility that, in view of China’s feeling of a weaker position in direct negotiations, an arrangement could be made for negotiations with friendly observers present; advisability of suggestion coming from the Council. |
176 |
| Oct. 13 (188) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Indications that developments in connection with the Kellogg Pact will be along the lines of Department’s policy; Consul’s plan of action in event of being invited to a seat at the Council table. |
177 |
| Oct. 13 | Memorandum of Trans-Atlantic Telephone
Conversation Between the Secretary and Gilbert: Authorization to Gilbert to accept the Council’s invitation but to act merely as an observer on matters unrelated to the Kellogg Pact; desire of the Secretary not to force his views on the invocation of the Pact on the Council, as it is a matter for their judgment. |
178 |
| Oct. 13 (91) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) Instructions to inform the Acting Foreign Minister that a full report on the Chinchow incident is expected momentarily from U. S. official sources. |
183 |
| Oct. 13 (192) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Message from Japanese Government to the Council members (text printed) announcing the dispatch to Shanghai of warships and marine fusiliers to protect Japanese interests, but explaining that it will not be necessary to land the forces if the Chinese quell the anti-Japanese movement. |
183 |
| Oct. 13 (87) | To the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Authorization to Gilbert to sit in any Council discussion of the Manchurian situation as observer and auditor and to participate in discussions relative to the possible application of the Kellogg Pact. |
183 |
| Oct. 13 (193) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Chinese statement of the case before an extraordinary session of the Council. |
184 |
| Oct. 13 (88) | To the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Opening statement (text printed) for Gilbert if invited to the Council; instructions to clarify Department’s position on invocation of the Kellogg Pact and its desire not to insist on invocation if peaceful settlement appears possible otherwise. |
184 |
| Oct. 13 (763) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Hanson and Salisbury: Letter from Consul General at Mukden (substance printed) reporting Japanese control of civil administration in Mukden and information from Japanese Consul General that resumption of service at the Mukden radio station is under consideration by the Japanese military. |
187 |
| Oct. 13 (194) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Draft text of statement to be made by Briand before the Council in introducing discussion of the relationship of Council action to the Kellogg Pact. |
187 |
| Oct. 13 (195) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Information that Japanese are objecting to the United States’ joining in the Council’s deliberations under any condition. |
188 |
| Oct. 13 (764) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Reuter report of statements by General Chiang before a political meeting that China did not go to the League for protection, but because she is a member, and that if the League failed, China would take matters into her own hands. |
188 |
| Oct. 14 (196) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Statements of Japanese and Chinese representatives before the Council reiterating their positions. |
189 |
| Oct. 14 (197) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Denial by Sze of rumors that China was willing to negotiate directly with Japan. |
190 |
| Oct. 14 (198) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Information that Briand has suggested plan similar to Secretary’s idea for negotiations with friendly observers present. |
190 |
| Oct. 14 | Memorandum by the Under Secretary of
State Conversation with the Japanese Ambassador, who stated that a sensation was created in the Japanese press by the use of the word “pressure” in a U. S. communication to the League; Under Secretary’s assurance that this referred only to the moral pressure of public opinion. |
190 |
| Oct. 14 (199) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Information that Briand is proposing privately an “ingenious plan” to send neutral individuals with the Chinese forces taking over upon Japanese evacuation, such neutrals to report on the manner in which Chinese execute their commitments. |
191 |
| Oct. 14 (85) | From the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) Chinese memorandum (text printed) in reply to Japanese note of October 9, outlining Chinese conformity to League resolution and disclaiming responsibility for Japan’s failure to comply. |
192 |
| Oct. 14 (196) | To the Chargé in Japan (tel.) Instructions to clarify Department’s position as one, not of sitting in judgment, but of prevention of hostilities and encouragement of direct negotiations Department’s attitude in connection with the Shantung negotiations, to be expressed in case Shidehara should bring up the matter. |
194 |
| Oct. 14 (200) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Informal approval by Council members of invitation to the United States; assumption that Japanese representative’s desire to consult Tokyo is an attempt to delay this action. |
195 |
| Oct. 14 | From the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs at
Nanking to the Chinese Legation Chinese Government’s instruction to deny reports of China’s starting direct negotiations and to label such reports as Japanese propaganda. |
196 |
| Oct. 15 (774) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Summary of report from Colonel Margetts of the bombing of Chinchow by Japanese without warning and without resistance. |
196 |
| Oct. 15 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Conversations with National Government officials, who inquired as to U. S. Government’s attitude on the proposal to invoke the Nine-Power Treaty and on the possibility of its assuming the initiative in the action. |
197 |
| Oct. 15 (201) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Possibility of being invited to sit with the Committee of Five to discuss situation relative to Kellogg Pact; request for instructions. |
198 |
| Oct. 15 (93) | To the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Authorization to sit with the Committee of Five solely on discussions pertaining to treaties to which the United States is a party. |
198 |
| Oct. 15 (202) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Private meeting of the Council in which resolution extending invitation to the United States was adopted with only the dissenting vote of Japan. |
199 |
| Oct. 15 | From the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs at
Nanking to the Chinese Legation Chinese Government’s instructions to inform the Department that it welcomes American participation in League Council deliberations. |
199 |
| Oct. 16 (185) | From the Chargé in Japan (tel.) Inquiry by Japanese Vice Foreign Minister concerning report that the United States was prepared to have an observer at the League Council meeting; observations that war is not likely, that U. S. policy should be to avoid League entanglements and to assist only in bringing about direct negotiations. |
200 |
| Oct. 16 (204) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Information that Consul has received invitation and will attend next meeting of the Council. |
201 |
| Oct. 16 (205) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Transmittal of the Council’s invitation (text printed). |
201 |
| [Oct. 16] (207) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Acceptance of the Council’s invitation (text printed). |
202 |
| Oct. 16 (94) | To the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Instructions to report to the Department on the results of the Council meetings and to participate only in regard to the possible application of the Kellogg Pact. |
203 |
| Oct. 16 | Memorandum of Trans-Atlantic Telephone
Conversation Between the Secretary and Gilbert: Secretary’s insistence that the initiative in invoking the Kellogg Pact should be taken in Geneva, especially in view of Japanese objection to U. S. participation in discussions; Gilbert’s opinion that although the powers are very solicitous, they will probably not take any definitive action. |
203 |
| Oct. 16 (95) | To the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Approval in principle of Briand’s idea (contained in telegram No. 199, October 14) but counsel of caution without the consent of both parties; advice of receipt of Chinese request for U. S. observers to accompany Chinese troops taking over evacuated areas. |
207 |
| Oct. 16 (93) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) Explanation for the Minister, in reply to his telegram of October 15, of the Department’s difficulties in answering a hypothetical question in connection with invocation of the Nine-Power Treaty; instructions to urge the advisability of avoiding further aggravation and of settlement by direct negotiations. |
208 |
| Oct. 16 (208) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Opening statement to the Council (text printed). |
209 |
| Oct. 16 (780) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Hanson and Salisbury: Report of events and situation at Taonan. |
210 |
| Oct. 16 (209) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Delivery of opening statement to the Council. |
211 |
| Oct. 16 | Memorandum by the Secretary of State of a
Conversation With the French Ambassador, October 16, 1931, 4
p.m. Secretary’s explanation of his views on the dangers of organizing the invocation of the Kellogg Pact in Washington, with the request that the Ambassador inform Briand. |
211 |
| Oct. 16 (210) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Public meeting of the Council with formal debate on the proposed invitation to the United States; Japanese objections on juridical basis and Council’s treatment. |
212 |
| Oct. 16 (97) | To the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Emphasis on previous instructions concerning participation in Council discussions only in regard to the Pact, and observation that U. S. purpose in authorizing a representative to sit with the League Council was to enable Geneva to initiate action with obvious U. S. cooperation. |
213 |
| Oct. 16 (211) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Statements of welcome to American representative (texts printed) by all Council members except Japan and Norway, the latter refraining to save Japan embarrassment. |
215 |
| Oct. 17 (783) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Inquiry whether Department desires independent investigation of Chinchow incident by Hanson and Salisbury. |
218 |
| Oct. 17 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information from Japanese representatives in China that Japan would negotiate with China only, without observers and without third-party interference; opinion of Soong that Japanese wanted only economic control in Manchuria, and his inquiry as to U. S. attitude toward Chinese relinquishment to Japan of control of railways and economic position in return for withdrawal of Japanese troops. |
218 |
| Oct. 17 | Memorandum by the Under Secretary of
State Conversation with the Japanese Ambassador, who was informed of Department’s feeling regarding Japanese Foreign Office announcement that two U. S. notes had not been given out for fear of inflaming public opinion; clarification of U. S. position, with explanation that United States did not expect Japan to withdraw completely from Manchuria. |
219 |
| Oct. 17 (99) | To the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Information that Briand and Reading have been informed through their Embassies of Secretary’s views on the invocation of the Pact; instructions to remain firm against referring invocation back to Washington; opinion that most efficacious step to preserve peace was the alinement of the United States with the other nations at Geneva. |
220 |
| Oct. 17 (386) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Instructions that Hanson and Salisbury should conclude survey and return to their posts, and that Consul General at Mukden should have a record of their reports and should collect any new information. |
221 |
| Oct. 17 (785) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Hanson and Salisbury: Report of events and situation at Newchwang, with opinion that Japanese interests there were not endangered and did not need protection by Japanese troops. |
222 |
| Oct. 17 (212) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Identic telegrams (text printed) to China and Japan invoking the Kellogg Pact, and notification to the press of action taken (text printed); information that French, British, and Italian Foreign Ministers are sending telegram through diplomatic channels and that French Government will notify all signatories of the Pact in the name of France, Great Britain, Italy, Germany, and Spain. |
224 |
| Oct. 17 (213) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Draft resolution of League Council (text printed) referring to the resolution of September 30, recommending direct negotiations, and indicating Council’s willingness, if invited, to nominate neutral persons to assist in negotiations. |
225 |
| Oct. 18 (787) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Report of Captain Nimmer of Naval Attachés office (substance printed) of panic at Tsitsihar and tension at Hailar; information that Americans at Tsitsihar have been advised to evacuate. |
226 |
| Oct. 18 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Record of interview with Chiang Kai-shek (text printed) being sent in identical form by British, French, and American Ministers; Chiang’s declaration that the Japanese General Staff was not susceptible to world public opinion but was taking advantage of world preoccupation with economic crisis to out-maneuver China. |
228 |
| Oct. 18 (214) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Information that Norway has invoked the Pact. |
229 |
| Oct. 18 | To President Hoover, Aboard the “U. S. S. Arkansas,”
Hampton Roads (tel.) Transmittal of information concerning the invocation of the Pact in the name of France, Great Britain, Italy, Germany, and Spain. |
230 |
| Oct. 18 | Memorandum by the Under Secretary of
State Conversation with the Japanese Ambassador, who stated that Japan was withdrawing objection to Gilbert’s sitting in the Council, that Shidehara regretted Foreign Office statement, and that a forthcoming meeting of outstanding men of Japan would have far-reaching influence. |
230 |
| Oct. 18 (215) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Changes in draft resolution of the Council (texts printed). |
231 |
| Oct. 18 (217) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Note from the Japanese representative to the President of the Council (text printed) questioning League action in inviting a U. S. representative; substance of Briand’s probable reply, reiterating Council’s position and declaring that technicalities must not obstruct the maintenance of peace. |
232 |
| Oct. 18 (218) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Message from Yoshizawa to the Council (text printed) giving information from his Government that Japanese troops have withdrawn from Mukden except for 650 men in the industrial quarters, the Chinese town, and the open town. |
234 |
| Oct. 19 (221) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Summary of tentative program of action for the Council: public meeting to obtain public explanation by both parties of their intentions and to make more effective any commitments; private negotiations by Briand along the lines of the draft resolution. |
235 |
| Oct. 19 (222) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Changes in resolution for final draft (text printed). |
237 |
| Oct. 19 (793) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Hanson and Salisbury: Report of events and situation at Antung; opinion that Japanese occupation was not justified and that Japanese residents would not be endangered by withdrawal of the troops. |
237 |
| Oct. 19 | Memorandum by the Secretary of
State Conversation with Japanese Ambassador, who cited instances of Japanese restoration of business in Manchuria and submitted a memorandum (text printed) of number of foreign warships in China; Secretary’s advice that evidence indicated acts of aggression had been committed by Japanese soldiers, but, he believed, without Government authorization. |
240 |
| Oct. 19 | Memorandum of Trans-Atlantic Telephone
Conversation Between the Secretary and Gilbert: Desire of the Secretary for formal notification of Pact’s invocation and for Gilbert’s withdrawal from Council discussions; probable statement by Japanese on juridical objection to U. S. participation, and Gilbert’s reply (texts printed). |
241 |
| Oct. 19 (101) | To the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Instructions to withdraw from Council meetings on grounds that there appears no further reason for attendance; information that this Government still pursues objective of preservation of peace between China and Japan. |
248 |
| Oct. 19 | Memorandum of Trans-Atlantic Telephone
Conversation Between Reading and the Secretary: Reading’s apprehension that Gilbert’s withdrawal would be taken as U. S. disapproval of League action, and disastrous political and financial results would ensue; Secretary’s insistence that the action would be a protection of U. S. position against adverse public opinion in United States and against the accentuation of the issue created between the United States and Japan; Secretary’s agreement to permit Gilbert to attend one more private meeting and one public meeting in present capacity, and to limit further attendance to public meetings—in an observer’s chair. |
248 |
| Oct. 19 | From the Counselor of the British
Embassy Message from Reading that Council’s intentions have been to follow Secretary’s wishes in the matter of U. S. representation on the Council; also not to leave the invocation of the Pact to Washington; expression of continued cooperation. |
258 |
| Oct. 19 (223) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Issuance of Briand’s reply to Japanese note questioning legal basis for U. S. representation, with conclusion that Council has given serious consideration to Japanese views and has taken no action in contradiction to the Covenant. |
258 |
| Oct. 19 (103) | To the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Authorization to attend one secret session and to sit at Council table at one public meeting, and thereafter to attend public meetings occupying the seat of an observer. |
259 |
| Oct. 19 (104) | To the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Advice that U. S. note to China and Japan re Kellogg Pact is being withheld pending receipt of notification of invocation from French Government. |
260 |
| Oct. 19 (224) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Outline of method of procedure being used in negotiations at Geneva. Report of Japanese effort to create impression that Department understands Manchurian situation better than does Geneva and is therefore not stressing withdrawal of Japanese troops. |
260 |
| Oct. 20 (189) | From the Chargé in Japan (tel.) Foreign Office information that Mukden wireless station will be in operation soon. |
262 |
| Oct. 20 (226) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Understanding that notification of the joint action of invoking the Kellogg Pact has now been sent by France, together with explanation of delay. |
262 |
| Undated [Rec’d Oct. 20] | Statement by the French Minister for Foreign
Affairs Invocation of the Kellogg Pact. |
262 |
| Oct. 20 (107) | To the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Information that attempts to divide the counsel of the powers must be expected, but that Department approves the progress and manner of negotiations. |
263 |
| Oct. 20 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Identic telegram (text printed) being sent by French, British, German, and American Ministers reporting interview with Chiang Kai-shek, who stated that withdrawal of troops should be expedited, that neutral observers should be present, and that Japan is playing for adjournment of the Council. Review of situation, and observation that it is nearing a crisis. |
264 |
| Oct. 20 | Memorandum of Trans-Atlantic Telephone
Conversation Between Gilbert and the Secretary: Gilbert’s report on the apprehension felt by Briand and the others because of manner of Gilbert’s withdrawal; information that Japanese have two apparently reasonable demands which they do not want publicized. |
266 |
| Oct. 20 (388) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Identic note (text printed) to the Chinese and Japanese Governments invoking the Kellogg Pact. (Sent, mutatis mutandis, to the Chargé in Japan.) |
275 |
| Oct. 20 (109) | To the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Authorization to continue sitting in Council’s open meetings in the seat assigned, but strictly as an observer. |
276 |
| Oct. 20 (111) | To the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Instructions to confine telephone calls to most urgent matters only, as Secretary desires to settle questions of policy only after due consideration. |
276 |
| Oct. 20 (232) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Delay of public meeting in view of apparent amelioration of Manchurian situation; reading at private session of aide-mémoire (substance printed) presenting Chinese points regarding withdrawal of troops and general settlement after withdrawal; Japanese position, with new demand for agreement upon certain points with respect to existing treaties previous to withdrawal. |
276 |
| Oct. 21 (192) | From the Chargé in Japan (tel.) Delivery of identic note invoking the Kellogg Pact to Foreign Minister, who expressed appreciation for U. S. considerate attitude; information that Japanese public opinion will brook no outside interference. |
279 |
| Oct. 21 (96) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) Review of Department’s position concerning a U. S. representative on the Council with instructions to clarify to the Foreign Office. |
280 |
| Oct. 21 | From the Consul General at Shanghai (tel.) Report of further disturbances in International Settlement due to Japanese display of force and anti-Japanese feeling, but agreement by Japanese to undertake no drastic action without notifying International Settlement police. |
281 |
| Oct. 21 (802) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information that Japanese are evacuating Jehol and Chahar Provinces. |
283 |
| Oct. 21 (234) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Report that Committee of Five is meeting instead of Council; Gilbert’s inquiry as to whether he should attend. |
283 |
| Oct. 21 (190) | From the Military Attaché in Japan to the Adjutant
General of the Army (tel.) Report of visit from General Tanaka, who stated that Japanese fighting men would not permit U. S. or League interference with Japan’s position in Manchuria. |
283 |
| Oct. 21 (113) | To the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Instructions that authorization to attend meetings does not include Committee of Five, and that no views should be expressed except under instructions. |
284 |
| Oct. 21 (237) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Proposal that Briand state at public meeting the action taken in invoking the Pact, naming states participating; inquiry if Department desires similar U. S. statement. |
284 |
| Oct. 21 (114) | To the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Instructions that United States should be included in the list only. |
285 |
| Oct. 21 (238) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Report that news from Manchuria is more favorable and that Briand is still trying to get Japanese to modify their demands sufficiently to make them acceptable to the Chinese. |
285 |
| Oct. 22 (804) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Mukden: Reopening of Bureau of Finance, Liaoning Province, with Japanese supervision, and similar reorganizations. |
285 |
| Oct. 22 (805) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Hanson and Salisbury: Report of general situation in Manchuria since September 18, with observations. |
288 |
| Oct. 22 (240) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Meeting of the Committee of Five: Briand’s report of his negotiations with Japanese, who will not accept withdrawal time limit or neutral observers; adoption of draft resolution providing that September 30 resolution be carried out and that Council adjourn until November 12. |
291 |
| Oct. 22 (98) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) Opinion of the Department that recourse to an agency other than the League Council at this time would confuse the situation, and that discussion of the Nine-Power Treaty with others should be avoided. |
292 |
| Oct. 22 | From the Chinese Chargé Acknowledgment by Chinese Government (text printed) of U. S. identic note, and expression of appreciation for U. S. attitude. |
293 |
| Oct. 22 (241) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Report that Japanese insist upon their demand for settlement of certain permanent problems in Manchuria before evacuation. |
294 |
| Oct. 22 (242) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Public meeting of the Council with prearranged speeches by the Japanese representative, Gilbert, and Briand; presentation of draft resolution (text printed) and desire of Japanese and Chinese representatives to make their observations on the resolution later. |
295 |
| Oct. 22 (243) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Message from Japanese delegation to the Council (text printed) reporting withdrawal of troops. |
298 |
| Oct. 22 (116) | To the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Receipt of a report (excerpt printed) that Japanese are circulating information of U. S. refusal to join in economic sanctions; instructions to inform Drummond or Briand that United States has taken no stand on action which the League may propose. |
299 |
| Oct. 23 (245) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Conversation between Drummond and Yoshizawa (substance printed) concerning Japanese “fifth point” demanding Chinese fulfillment of treaty obligations regarding railways in Manchuria; Drummond’s suggestion that Yoshizawa approach Sze publicly on China’s attitude. |
299 |
| Oct. 23 (812) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Mukden: Report of clashes between Chinese and Japanese forces near Tiehling and on Taonan-Angangki Railway. |
301 |
| Oct. 23 (246) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Statement before the Council by Chinese representative (extracts printed) accepting Council’s draft resolution; Japanese counterproposal to resolution, calling for preliminary agreement on fundamental principles prior to withdrawal of troops; Chinese inability to accept counterproposal. Observation by Briand that crucial point to be cleared up was what the Japanese meant in referring to “fundamental principles.” |
302 |
| Oct. 24 (247) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Discussion by the Council of Japanese explanation of “fundamental principles,” and refusal of Japanese representative to divulge the details covered by the term, reserving particulars for discussion between the two countries only; observation by Briand that Council cannot include in a draft resolution a reference to “fundamental principles” the meaning of which it does not know. |
307 |
| Oct. 24 (248) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Briand’s suggestion to Japanese representative that he append a reservation to the draft resolution allowing Japanese to postpone evacuation until evacuation conditions are fulfilled; Japanese refusal. |
311 |
| Oct. 24 (250) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Council’s rejection of Japanese counterproposal and adoption of draft resolution; expressions of gratitude for U. S. cooperation (texts printed) and U. S. response (text printed); adjournment of Council until November 16. |
312 |
| Oct. 24 (251) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Conversation with Yoshizawa, who revealed the “fifth point” substantially the same as presented to Drummond, and explained that it had not been revealed to the Council as China would probably have suggested going before the Hague Court. |
313 |
| Oct. 24 (374) | From the Chargé in Japan Return of Salisbury to Tokyo, and his report of the investigation (text printed). |
314 |
| Oct. 26 (253) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Communication from Chinese Government to the Council on further bombings in Manchuria. |
329 |
| Oct. 26 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Report of Chinese gratification at League action. Minister’s intention to proceed to Shanghai and to return to Nanking about November 16. |
329 |
| Oct. 26 (257) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Request for instructions on relations to be maintained and handling of military information during adjournment of the Council. |
330 |
| Oct. 26 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Identic report (text printed) being sent by French, British, and U. S. representatives of interview with Chiang Kai-shek, who expressed appreciation at League action and invited the three Legations to nominate observers for the transfer of evacuated areas; request for instructions. |
330 |
| Oct. 27 (103) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) Instructions to inform the Minister that Department desires not to take independent initiative in nominating observers and prefers to refrain from commitment until informed of League action. |
331 |
| Oct. 27 (397) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Instructions for Mukden to inform R. C. A. representative that the question of the wireless station is under consideration, and to report present situation in regard to the station. |
331 |
| Oct. 27 (104) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) Authorization for the Minister to proceed to Shanghai. |
332 |
| Oct. 27 (119) | To the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Instructions to continue contacts with Drummond and to exchange information in confidence as previously. |
332 |
| Oct. 27 (262) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Note from Sze to Briand (text printed) declaring China’s intentions of fulfilling her obligations under the Covenant and willingness to conclude an arbitration treaty with Japan. |
332 |
| Undated | Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State of a
Conversation With the Japanese Ambassador, October 28,
1931 Papers left by the Ambassador with the Secretary, including the following (texts printed): (1) Memorandum of essential points of Drummond’s suggestion of October 20 and of Council resolution of October 24; (2) statement by Japanese Government, October 27; (3) article 6 of Chientao Agreement (1909); (4) excerpt of statement by Charles E. Hughes (1922); (5) excerpts from Peking Protocol (1905). |
333 |
| Oct. 28 (825) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Excerpt from address by Chiang Kai-shek, October 26, voicing appreciation of U. S. and League efforts and the hope for the execution of the League resolution and the restoration of friendly relations between Japan and China. |
340 |
| Oct. 28 (264) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) List of the states known to have invoked the Kellogg Pact; advice that no information is available respecting their action in making the notes public. |
340 |
| Oct. 28 (265) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Information from Drummond that Tokyo press reports set forth new Japanese demands, leaving uncertainty as to true version of the demands; his opinion that Tokyo next will set up a puppet government in Manchuria. |
341 |
| Oct. 29 (347) | From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.) Request to be informed of U. S. action on China’s invitation to nominate an observer, and information that Foreign Minister continues to work for a peaceful settlement of Manchurian question. |
342 |
| Oct. 29 | Memorandum by the Secretary of State Call from French Ambassador, who conveyed a request from Briand that U. S. approval of the League final resolution be demonstrated at Tokyo with some publicity; Secretary’s reply that he was preparing such a note but that the difficulty was in indicating clearly his general support and yet leaving Japan a way out of its position. |
342 |
| Oct. 29 | From the French Minister for Foreign Affairs to the
French Ambassador Text of French request that U. S. Government’s approval of League resolution be made known publicly to Japanese Government. |
344 |
| Oct. 30 (122) | To the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Advice that U. S. position regarding Council resolution is being discussed with French Ambassador. |
344 |
| Oct. 31 (270) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Note from the President of the Council to Yoshizawa (text printed) in reply to Japanese declaration of October 26, indicating confidence that as China has given pledges covering the various fundamental principles raised by Japan, the latter will proceed with the withdrawal of troops and the appointment of representatives to carry out details of the evacuation. |
345 |
| Oct. 31 (60) | To the Ambassador in Peru (tel.) Advice that the Department prefers to refrain from commitment on the appointment of observers until action has been taken by League members. |
347 |
| Oct. 31 (124) | To the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Information that British Minister in China has instructions to hold representatives in readiness to proceed to Manchuria as observers, and instructions to inform Department of further action by that or other governments. |
347 |
| Nov. 1 (849) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Mukden: Removal by Japanese armed guard of Salt Administration funds from Bank of China to the Provincial Bank, Newchwang. |
348 |
| Nov. 1 (271) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Letter from Sze to Drummond (substance printed) citing Chinese concern over Japanese efforts to incite so-called independence movements in Manchuria. |
348 |
| Nov. 1 (11) | From the Ambassador in Turkey (tel.) Information that on October 21 the Turkish Government sent identic telegrams invoking the Kellogg Pact. |
349 |
| Nov. 2 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Request from the Acting Foreign Minister that U. S. representatives be designated in accordance with League resolution. |
349 |
| Nov. 2 (273) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Drummond’s receipt of a communication stating that Chinese were dispatching troops to occupy evacuated areas and neutral observers were considered essential; Drummond’s reply that October 24 resolution is not binding, as it was not passed unanimously, and Chinese should proceed with prudence. |
350 |
| Nov. 2 (859) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Suggestion by Wellington Koo that should the United States contemplate action similar to the British, early announcement of such decision would be helpful. |
350 |
| Nov. 2 (92) | From the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) Announcement by the Foreign Ministry of a Commission, with Wellington Koo as Chairman, to negotiate in connection with the reoccupation of Manchuria, as provided by League resolution of October 24; Chinese desire to know if United States intends to appoint observers. |
351 |
| Nov. 2 | Memorandum by the Under Secretary of
State Inquiry from British Ambassador as to U. S. approval of League action; Under Secretary’s concurrence with Ambassador’s observation that including the date of withdrawal in the resolution was unfortunate. |
351 |
| Nov. 2 (274) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Conversation with Drummond, who reviewed the situation in the light of the lack of juridical force of October 24 resolution, and observed that if the United States could induce Japan to agree to the conversations concerning evacuation, it would be helpful. |
352 |
| Nov. 2 | Memorandum by the Minister in
China Conversation with Dr. C. C. Wu, who outlined developments in negotiations between Nanking and Cantonese delegates; Minister’s assurances that U. S. policy was one of non-interference in domestic questions. |
354 |
| Nov. 3 (93) | From the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) Inquiry by the Acting Foreign Minister as to accuracy of remarks attributed to the Under Secretary concerning permanent Japanese occupation of Manchuria and disapproval of League resolution. |
357 |
| Nov. 3 (276) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Conversation between Drummond and Sze, the latter presenting note from Chinese Government and accompanying memorandum (texts printed) outlining Japanese actions not in accord with their pledges. |
357 |
| Nov. 3 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Request by T. V. Soong that Department influence the Council to meet in Geneva instead of in Paris, as traditional French policy toward China has been contrary to Briand’s attitude at Geneva. |
361 |
| Nov. 3 (862) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Report from Mukden that Antung electric plant remains closed, preventing American company’s collection of monthly payments on equipment supplied; explanation of Japanese military that their action was and is a military necessity. |
361 |
| Nov. 3 (863) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Report of closing of other Chinese electric plants in Manchuria, with the indication that Japanese plan a monopoly of electric power. |
362 |
| Nov. 3 (106) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) Clarification of Under Secretary’s remarks, in reply to inquiry in telegram No. 93, November 3. |
362 |
| Nov. 4 (867) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Harbin and from Mukden: Report of military activities around Tsitsihar and ultimatum to Chinese to withdraw from Nonni River. |
363 |
| Nov. 4 (868) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Mukden: Report from Japanese military that radio station has been restored to working order and Japanese Consulate General will be advised of particulars regarding operation. |
364 |
| Nov. 4 | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Nanking: Note from the Acting Foreign Minister to the American Minister (text printed) advising of the organization of a commission for the evacuation, and inviting the U. S. Government to appoint its representatives. |
364 |
| Nov. 4 (870) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Harbin: Report of Japanese intentions to repair bridges on the Nonni River, and of Chinese intentions to prevent clashes between Japanese and Chinese troops if possible. |
365 |
| Nov. 4 (204) | From the Chargé in Japan (tel.) Advice from Vice Foreign Minister that his Government is preparing a statement for the League Council meeting, November 16. Opinion that United States should not associate itself with League resolution, as Japanese public believes other powers put through the resolution with the intent to damage Japan’s interests in China. |
366 |
| Undated | Memorandum by the Secretary of State of a
Conversation With the Japanese Ambassador, November 4,
1931 Advice by the Secretary that United States is making representations to Tokyo regarding Japan’s refusal to evacuate until she has concluded negotiations on long-standing controversies, many of them unrelated to present situation in Manchuria. Ambassador’s version of Japanese occupation of Tsitsihar. |
367 |
| Undated | Memorandum by the Secretary of State of a
Conversation With the French Ambassador, November 4,
1931 Presentation to the French Ambassador of an aide-mémoire (text printed) of U. S. representations to Japan, showing U. S. concurrence in Council action and pointing out that negotiations brought about by military pressure are treaty violations; suggestion that, if necessary, Briand might suggest the use of neutral observers in negotiations as compromise measure. |
368 |
| Nov. 4 (218) | To the Chargé in Japan (tel.) Instructions that Department’s representations should be delivered as soon as possible, not as a note, but as a memorandum, and should be read to the Foreign Minister prior to being handed to him. |
371 |
| Nov. 5 (873) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Harbin: Lack of evidence of Russian aid to Chinese at Tsitsihar, and opinion that reports of such aid are Japanese propaganda; information of clashes near Tsitsihar. |
371 |
| Nov. 5 (278) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Communication from Sawada to Drummond (text printed) citing Chinese request to Japan for settlement of details of evacuation in accordance with resolution of October 24, and Japanese reply that the resolution was not adopted, but that Japan is ready to negotiate an agreement on fundamental principles and on the withdrawal of troops. |
372 |
| Undated (Rec’d Nov. 5) (99) | From the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) Statement by the Foreign Office of Chinese reply (text printed) to Japanese note of October 31, inviting Japan to nominate representatives for the evacuation commission and indicating willingness to negotiate on questions of fundamental principles, but reiterating that before the completion of evacuation, negotiations must concern only evacuation and reoccupation. |
373 |
| Nov. 5 (279) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Communication from Sze to Drummond enclosing cablegram from Nanking (texts printed) concerning Japanese seizure of salt revenue. |
373 |
| Nov. 5 (206) | From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.) Notification of delivery of Department’s memorandum to the Foreign Office. |
375 |
| Undated | Memorandum by the Ambassador in Japan of a
Conversation With the Japanese Minister for Foreign Affairs,
November 5, 1931 Delivery to Shidehara of the memorandum of November 3; Shidehara’s résumé of Japan’s attitude toward China and of the five points which Japan insisted should be settled before withdrawal of troops. |
380 |
| Nov. 5 (874) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Opinion of Dr. Wellington Koo that his commission is acceptable to Japan, and his intimation that it might have to deal with problems more serious than those for which it was appointed. |
380 |
| Nov. 5 (280) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Information that Briand has given publicity to his note to Yoshizawa (contained in telegram No. 270, October 31, from the Consul at Geneva) in view of Japanese delay in replying. |
380 |
| Nov. 5 (126) | To the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Transmittal of Department’s memorandum of November 3 to Japan and of background explanation, with instructions to inform Drummond; suggestion that Drummond inform Council members only that United States has made representations supporting Council’s position relative to evacuation. |
381 |
| Nov. 5 (409) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Instructions to inform Acting Foreign Minister, if necessary, that Department is noncommittal on the question of observers and prefers not to initiate action; information that Chinese have been advised by League officials to exercise prudence, as October 24 resolution lacks binding force. |
382 |
| Nov. 5 (410) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Instructions to secure from Mukden the particulars concerning the plan for operation of the radio. |
382 |
| Nov. 6 (877) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Harbin: Report of Japanese crossing of Nonni River and ensuing clash with Tsitsihar troops. |
382 |
| Nov. 6 (878) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Mukden: Message released by Japanese headquarters (substance printed) regarding the fighting at Nonni River. |
383 |
| Nov. 6 (282) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Receipt from Drummond of copy of a memorandum by the Chinese Government (substance printed) in reply to Japanese declaration of October 26, reiterating Chinese ability to protect Japanese nationals in proportion as the evacuation is effected, and suggesting settlement of other questions by conciliation. |
384 |
| Undated | Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State of a
Conversation With the Japanese Ambassador, November 6,
1931 Explanation by the Ambassador of the fighting on the Nonni River and assurance that Japan has no intention of sending troops to Tsitsihar, as it desires no conflict with the Soviet. |
385 |
| Undated | Memorandum by the Secretary of State of a
Conversation With the French Ambassador, November 6,
1931 Inquiry by the Ambassador as to the outcome of U. S. representations to Tokyo, his concern over the increasing strength of the military, and observation by the Secretary that the other nations should preserve a united front. |
385 |
| Nov. 6 | From the French Embassy Information from Paris that, in compliance with October 24 resolution, the French Minister in China has been instructed to inform Chinese Government of readiness of French representatives when their presence is required. |
386 |
| Nov. 6 (284) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Information that Drummond has received a note from Sze commenting on Japanese reply to identic telegrams sent from Geneva invoking the Kellogg Pact. |
387 |
| Nov. 7 (285) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Report of informing Drummond of Department’s representations to Japan and of his satisfaction; Drummond’s observations concerning pro-Japanese feeling in France and fear that Briand is not receiving accurate information as to Department’s position; suggestion that clarification of the American position for London and Paris through the Embassies might be considered. |
387 |
| Nov. 7 (883) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Mukden: Further report of engagement at Nonni River. |
390 |
| Nov. 7 (287) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Information that Sugimura is attempting, on his own authority, to bring about parallel negotiations covering (1) evacuation and (2) the Japanese five points, reserving parts not relating to security pending the completion of evacuation. |
390 |
| Nov. 7 (884) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Harbin: Further report of the fighting near Tsitsihar, with Chao Chung-jen’s version (substance printed), and of Japanese troop movements; opinion of Japanese Consul General that Chinese are receiving Soviet aid. |
391 |
| Nov. 7 (885) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Mukden: Conclusion of Nonni River conflict by withdrawal of Chinese, and Japanese strengthening of position. |
392 |
| Nov. 8 (888) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Harbin: Retreat of General Ma’s troops; opinion that Japanese intend to set up their own government at Tsitsihar. |
393 |
| Nov. 9 (889) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Mukden: Proclamation by the Local Peace Maintenance Committee that it is functioning as Provincial Government and has no connection with Nanking or Marshal Chang. |
393 |
| Nov. 9 (288) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Information that Yoshizawa adopted Sugimura’s proposal (outlined in telegram No. 287, November 7) as his own and telegraphed it to Tokyo. |
394 |
| Nov. 9 (892) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information from Marshal Chang Hsueh-liang and Wellington Koo of serious fighting in Tientsin, and their opinion that Japanese are provoking situation to bring about coup; their request for impartial investigation by principal consular officers at Tientsin. |
394 |
| Nov. 9 (289) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Explanation of procedure in keeping Department informed with respect to communiqués issued by Secretary General and by the Chinese and Japanese. (Footnote: Department’s approval.) |
395 |
| Nov. 9 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Request for authorization to communicate to the Acting Foreign Minister the substance of Department’s representations to Japan. |
396 |
| Nov. 9 (290) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Receipt from Drummond of note addressed by Briand to the Japanese representative (text printed) respecting the seizure of salt revenues, pointing out that this action is incompatible with Japan’s commitments before the Council, and requesting pertinent information. |
396 |
| Nov. 9 (292) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Conversation with Drummond concerning Japanese reply (text printed) to Briand’s letter of October 29, reiterating Japan’s intent to comply with September 30 resolution and suggesting that China may be contemplating questioning the validity of some treaties with Japan. Drummond’s opinion that Japanese are not within the September 30 resolution in their protests, that they have violated treaties; also that publication of U. S. representations to Japan might be helpful. |
397 |
| Nov. 9 (293) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Information from Drummond that November 16 Council meeting will take place in Paris, and his desire, based upon certain points of policy (substance printed), that U. S. representation be continued. |
399 |
| Nov. 9 (893) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Tientsin: Report of firing in or near the Japanese Concession and of uneasiness as to possible repercussions. |
401 |
| Nov. 9 (294) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Receipt from Drummond of identic telegram (text printed) sent to Tokyo and Nanking in the name of the President of the Council concerning armed conflict in Manchuria. |
402 |
| Nov. 9 | From the Consul General at Tientsin (tel.) Report of the clash between Chinese police and plain-clothes men outside the Japanese Concession. |
402 |
| Nov. 9 (295) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Receipt from Drummond of Japanese Government’s telegram (text printed) concerning Nonni River incident, explaining that Japanese troops had ceased to advance northward and their presence in the vicinity was solely for the protection of the bridge repair work. |
403 |
| Nov. 9 (411) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Instructions to request Consul General at Tientsin to collaborate with Colonel Taylor and report regarding the fighting; also to authorize him to participate in consular body investigation, if one is undertaken, but not to take the initiative in such action. |
404 |
| Nov. 9 (530) | To the Chargé in France (tel.) Instructions to communicate to Briand, personally if possible, Department’s position relative to U. S. representations to Japan. |
404 |
| Nov. 9 (297) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Receipt from Drummond of Japanese communication (text printed) giving information of the withdrawal of a number of Japanese troops. |
406 |
| Nov. 9 (298) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Transmittal of telegram from Tokyo (text printed) denying the alleged seizure of salt revenues. |
406 |
| Nov. 10 | Memorandum of Trans-Atlantic Telephone
Conversation Between the Secretary and Dawes: Secretary’s instructions for Dawes to plan to attend the Council meeting in Paris, not to sit in on the meetings but to confer with other representatives on matters in which the United States is interested; explanation of Department’s attitude and desire to bring about some solution so long as it is done by pacific means. |
407 |
| Nov. 10 (299) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Transmission of report by Associate Chief Inspector of Salt Revenues (text printed) citing further seizure of salt revenues by the Japanese. |
414 |
| Nov. 10 (322) | To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.) Information concerning G. Howland Shaw’s role in Paris; instructions to have Gilbert proceed to Paris, if it is deemed advisable, after the meeting has begun. |
414 |
| Nov. 10 (903) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Harbin: Report of clash between the Japanese and Chinese, the latter being driven back to Sanchienfang, in the direction of Tsitsihar; opinion that this engagement is the most serious since September 18. |
415 |
| Nov. 10 | From the Consul General at Tientsin (tel.) Report of strict martial law and suspension of practically all business in Chinese city and Japanese Concession; statement by Japanese commander that trouble was due to Chinese politics which resulted in orders to protect Japanese Concession. |
417 |
| Nov. 10 | Memorandum by the Secretary of
State Conversation with the Japanese Ambassador, who was informed that Dawes would be in Paris to confer with the representatives of other nations; discussion of the “fundamental principles.” |
417 |
| Nov. 10 (904) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Harbin: Report of quiet near Tsitsihar and Japanese ultimatum to General Ma to hand over government to Chang Hai-peng. |
419 |
| Nov. 10 (534) | To the Chargé in France (tel.) Instructions to inform Briand that the United States will be prepared to send observers to Manchuria if and when Chinese and Japanese agree on arrangements. |
420 |
| Nov. 11 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Receipt from Acting Foreign Minister of telegram (text printed) requesting U. S. representatives to investigate events at Tientsin. Request for instructions. |
421 |
| Nov. 11 | To the Consul General at Shanghai (tel.) Advice that Department prefers to have the Chinese Government receive information of U. S. representations to Japan through the Chinese member on the Council. |
421 |
| Nov. 11 (327) | To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.) Announcement (text printed) that Dawes will be in Paris during the meeting of the Council. |
422 |
| Undated | Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State of a
Conversation With the Counselor of the French Embassy, November 11,
1931 Advice from the Counselor that Briand’s attitude toward the Manchurian matter is similar to the Department’s; Under Secretary’s observation that as France, Great Britain, and United States have military attachés in the Nonni River region, other observers seem unnecessary. |
422 |
| Nov. 11 (328) | To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.) Outline of Department’s attitude and information that new Japanese memorandum appears to exclude a Japanese attempt to force a solution of issues not germane to troop withdrawal, but fear that Japan will renew at Paris its demands for settlement of long-standing questions. |
423 |
| Nov. 11 (434) | From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.) Conversations with Matsudaira and Simon, the latter suggesting that the immediate objective ought to be an armistice, that the time limit on Japanese troop withdrawal was unwise. |
426 |
| Nov. 11 | From the Consul General at Tientsin (tel.) Report of inquiry into causes of trouble at Tientsin. |
427 |
| Nov. 11 (724) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) Information that instructions in Department’s telegram No. 530, November 9, have been carried out. |
429 |
| Nov. 12 (302) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Receipt from Drummond of telegram dispatched to Tokyo and Nanking (text printed) at Briand’s request, reminding Governments to refrain from aggravating the situation. |
429 |
| Nov. 12 (109) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) Instructions to inform Acting Foreign Minister that, prior to his request, Department had authorized its representatives to report on occurrences at Tientsin; advice that Department perceives no special need for sending Military Attaché there. |
429 |
| Nov. 12 (215) | From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.) Information from Shidehara that Japan is prepared to withdraw troops upon creation of satisfactory policing or upon acceptance of the five points. |
430 |
| Nov. 12 (224) | To the Ambassador in Japan (tel.) Authorization for Military Attaché to visit Manchuria provided those of leading powers do also. |
431 |
| Nov. 12 | From the Secretary to President Hoover to the
Secretary of State Transmittal of a memorandum by President Hoover (text printed) containing certain suggestions for Dawes. |
431 |
| Nov. 13 (226) | To the Ambassador in Japan (tel.) Instructions not to imply approval of the Japanese proposals indicated in Ambassador’s telegram No. 215, November 12. |
432 |
| Nov. 13 (545) | To the Chargé in France (tel.) For Dawes: Transmittal of Ambassador Forbes’ telegram No. 215, November 12, with instructions that a noncommittal attitude should be assumed toward any such Japanese proposals at Paris. |
432 |
| Nov. 13 (925) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Mukden: Denial by Japanese Consul General of rumors that Pu-yi will be made emperor, and his opinion that troops will not be withdrawn by November 16. |
433 |
| Nov. 13 (926) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Harbin: Japanese bombing of Sanchienfang; safety of American missionaries at Tsitsihar. |
434 |
| Nov. 13 | From the Consul General at Tientsin (tel.) Report that tension is somewhat relaxed; that two Japanese destroyers are at Tangku. |
434 |
| Nov. 13 (927) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Mukden: Assertion that Japanese expect to obtain technical information through U. S. Consulate General for operation of the radio station, and that they have made no effort to place the station under Chinese control. |
435 |
| Nov. 13 | From the Consul General at Tientsin (tel.) Press reports that Pu-yi has been taken to Dairen by Japanese; information of British that he was taken to Mukden. |
435 |
| Nov. 14 (933) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Report that Japanese have officially demanded withdrawal of Chinese troops to about 6 miles from Tientsin, under provisional note of July 15, 1902. |
436 |
| Nov. 14 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Transmittal of identic telegram (text printed) being sent by British, French, and American Ministers, of interview with Chiang Kai-shek, who cited the situations at Tientsin and Tsitsihar and requested joint investigation and report. |
436 |
| Nov. 14 (217) | From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.) Information in reply to Department’s telegram No. 226, November 13, that Ambassador has carefully refrained from making any statement that might be construed as indicating U. S. attitude on new Japanese position. |
437 |
| Nov. 14 (307) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Letter from Sze to Drummond (text printed) setting forth the gravity of the situation at Tientsin. |
437 |
| Nov. 14 (108) | From the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) Receipt from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of (1) plans for taking over occupied places in Manchuria; (2) regulations for the organization of the commission; (3) list of members of commission. |
438 |
| Nov. 14 | From the Consul General at Tientsin (tel.) Report of the improvement in the situation. |
439 |
| Nov. 14 (936) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information that now General Honjo demands to occupy railway station of Tsitsihar itself. |
440 |
| Nov. 14 (309) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Removal to Paris of the portion of the Secretariat staff concerned with the Sino-Japanese question. Conversation with Drummond, who sees Japanese position as unchanged in spite of optimistic press reports. |
440 |
| Nov. 14 (547) | To the Chargé in France (tel.) For Dawes: Approval of Dawes’ mention of Nine-Power Treaty, as it represents traditional U. S. policy toward China; opinion that this treaty renounces any claim by Japan to “special rights” in Manchuria. |
441 |
| Nov. 14 (418) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Reminder that U. S. Government was not a party to the note of July 15, 1902, and inquiry as to whether there are any instances on record of American consular officials at Tientsin having joined with others in invoking the note. |
442 |
| Nov. 14 (939) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Mukden: Minor clash on Nonni-Angangki front; General Honjo’s intention of opening railway through to Tsitsihar and keeping it open. |
443 |
| Nov. 14 (229) | To the Ambassador in Japan (tel.) Concurrence of War and State Departments in the sending of Colonel McIlroy to Manchuria provided attachés of two other leading powers are sent; instructions that the mission should be considered nonpolitical. |
443 |
| Nov. 14 (740) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Conversation with Briand, who brought up the question of Dawes’ sitting on the Council and the implications resulting from non-attendance. Dawes’ suggestion that after several meetings the United States might accept an invitation to discuss matters involving American treaty rights and cooperation in the Kellogg Pact. Request for Department’s comments on this suggestion. |
444 |
| Nov. 14 (940) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Harbin: Information that General Ma has defied Japanese ultimatum and that Chinese fear an attempt to shatter his forces before November 16. |
445 |
| Nov. 14 | Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State of a
Conversation With the Japanese Ambassador Information from the Japanese Ambassador that Matsudaira will be in Paris for conferences during the Council session; that the position of the Wakatsuki Cabinet in Tokyo is very dangerous; that unless General Ma’s forces attack the Japanese contingent at the Nonni River bridge, there is no danger of further Japanese advance. |
446 |
| Nov. 15 (941) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Harbin: Information from Secretary Chao of telegrams from General Ma (texts printed) stating Japanese intentions of occupying Taoang Railway to main Tsitsihar Station, and describing an encounter near Sanchienfang. |
447 |
| Nov. 15 (741) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Conversation with Sze concerning the possibility of settling the questions of evacuation and of protection of Japanese nationals without bringing up the Japanese fifth point. |
448 |
| Nov. 15 | From the Consul General at Tientsin (tel.) Report that situation is not so good, as normal measures for settlement of trouble are not being employed. |
449 |
| Nov. 15 (742) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Conversation with Matsudaira, who expressed the fear that with the increasingly dangerous state of Japanese public opinion, his Government might not favor his recommendations to moderate the Japanese position. |
450 |
| Nov. 16 (944) | From the Minister in China (tel.) General report of the situation, with the observation that there is no evidence of Japanese intentions to withdraw, and that if the League can do nothing, the people will take matters into their own hands. |
451 |
| Nov. 16 (219) | From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.) Report that judgment of foreign diplomats in Tokyo recommends against further pressure on Japan at Geneva. |
452 |
| Nov. 16 | Memorandum of Trans-Atlantic Telephone
Conversation Between the Secretary and Dawes: Authorization by the Secretary for Dawes to sit on future sessions of the Council, and Dawes’ opinion that it will not now be necessary; Dawes’ information that speeches in the Council will be avoided until Japanese domestic situation is settled. |
452 |
| Nov. 16 (551) | To the Chargé in France (tel.) For Dawes: Instructions to make no comment whatever in case Japanese bring up protocols attached to the Sino-Japanese treaty relating to Manchuria. |
456 |
| Nov. 16 (552) | To the Chargé in France (tel.) For Dawes: Reminder that in the Shantung negotiations it was China and Japan, not the other powers, who chose the neutral observers. |
457 |
| Nov. 16 (744) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Drummond’s indication that it is the general feeling of the Council that disputants should agree on two committees, one to consider Japanese safety and evacuation of Japanese troops, and the other the five points of Japan. |
457 |
| Nov. 16 (946) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Harbin: Report by Captain Tenney that there were no signs of Soviet activities near Manchouli and Hailar. |
459 |
| Nov. 16 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Rumors in Nanking that the United States, by not sending an observer to the Paris meeting, is making a concession to Japan. Intimation by Wellington Koo that Chinese are prepared to start direct discussions under League auspices or with observers appointed by the League. |
459 |
| Nov. 16 (750) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Conversation with Simon, who submitted a memorandum of personal and tentative suggestions to meet Japan’s demands concerning treaty rights and railways; Dawes’ reminder that China protested the 1915 treaties and that the United States went on record against the recognition of any treaties impairing open-door rights and the integrity of China. Request for observations on the Simon memorandum. |
460 |
| Nov. 16 (751) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Receipt from Drummond of communication from the Chinese (text printed) outlining situation at Nonni Bridge and stating that Japanese intend to occupy Tsitsihar. |
462 |
| Nov. 17 (950) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Harbin: Report that Japanese have been informed that the withdrawal of Chinese troops from Tsitsihar as demanded in their ultimatum rests with the Heilungkiang Province authorities. |
463 |
| Nov. 17 (112) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) Information for the Minister that Department has brought up the method of the Shantung negotiations several times, but does not wish the suggestion to emanate from the United States; that no sort of rapprochement has been created between the United States and Japan. |
464 |
| Nov. 17 (952) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Harbin: Report of General Ma’s determination to resist and of Japanese reverses at Nonni River. |
465 |
| Nov. 17 (113) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) Advice for the Minister that the Department prefers not to make any further statement regarding an investigation at Tsitsihar, and is awaiting telegraphic report from Tientsin before replying to Chiang Kai-shek’s request for investigation there. |
466 |
| Nov. 17 (559) | To the Chargé in France (tel.) For Dawes: Information that Department did not make certain commitments printed in the New York Herald-Tribune. |
466 |
| Nov. 17 (756) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Information of private meeting of the Council at which it was decided that Briand should approach the Japanese on the precise importance of their fifth point and which treaties they consider pertinent. |
467 |
| Nov. 17 (757) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Résumé of conversations with Sze, Drummond, and Matsudaira; memorandum of a 3-point proposal presented by Matsudaira (text printed). Opinion that the role of Nine-Power Treaty in the settlement looms larger. |
467 |
| Nov. 17 (758) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Receipt of résumé by Simon (text printed) of Manchurian situation as he sees it, suggesting that Japan might agree to withdraw upon China’s agreement to adjust the railway trouble and to assure the League of protection to Japanese interests. |
469 |
| Nov. 17 (560) | To the Chargé in France (tel.) For Dawes: Advice that Department objects to Simon’s suggestion in that it yields to Japan permission to extort by force a ratification of treaty rights, and that the United States is not weakening in its position. |
470 |
| Nov. 18 (953) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Inquiry concerning Reuter report of New York Herald-Tribune story on U. S. attitude toward Japan. |
471 |
| Nov. 18 (954) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Mandate issued by National Government (text printed) declaring null and void all agreements pertaining to property made with foreigners without the authorization of the Central Government. |
472 |
| Nov. 18 (955) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Acceptance by National Government of General Wan Fu-lin’s resignation as Chairman of Heilungkiang, and appointment of General Ma. |
472 |
| Nov. 18 (222) | From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.) Report that General Staff is considering dispatch of an additional division to Manchuria, and that three more air squadrons have been sent. |
472 |
| Nov. 18 (956) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Japanese attack on General Ma’s forces with six bombing planes. |
473 |
| Nov. 18 (565) | To the Chargé in France (tel.) For Dawes: Opinion that if China and Japan could agree as to what treaties are valid, Simon’s suggestion would be helpful. |
473 |
| Nov. 18 (223) | From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.) Tense situation in Tokyo and possibility of a Cabinet change. |
474 |
| Nov. 18 (959) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Mukden: Report of Japanese offensive on Nonni front. |
475 |
| Nov. 18 (425) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Advice that the Consulate General at Mukden should not undertake to furnish Japanese with information concerning the operation of the radio station, but that if Radio Corporation considers it desirable to furnish such information to the Japanese, it should first contact the organization with which it concluded the traffic agreement. |
475 |
| Nov. 18 (224) | From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.) Information from the Foreign Minister that General Ma was understood to have agreed to Japanese proposal that he withdraw so as not to impede railroad operation, but that he had attacked instead. Foreign Minister’s denial that Japanese expect to make Pu-yi emperor of Manchuria. |
476 |
| Nov. 18 | Memorandum by the Under Secretary of
State Under Secretary’s denial, upon inquiry by British Ambassador, of press reports that United States had assured Japan that it would not take part in League sanctions against Japan. |
477 |
| Nov. 18 (569) | To the Chargé in France (tel.) For Dawes: Opinion that Matsudaira’s proposal should be rejected, and reasons therefor; fear that the only hope for settlement is to make public the whole case against Japan. |
477 |
| Nov. 18 (762) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Report that he has made clear to the Japanese the position of the United States, that Japanese delegation have not heard from Tokyo on their 3-point proposal but are now asking for authority to withdraw point 1 and to submit only point 2 to the League. Matsudaira’s statement concerning alarming internal situation in Japan. |
478 |
| Nov. 18 (571) | To the Chargé in France (tel.) For Dawes: Transmittal of statement to the press (text printed) denying current press reports and declaring U. S. position as unchanged. |
480 |
| Nov. 18 (763) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Report of presentation at private Council meeting of informal suggestions made by Yoshizawa. |
480 |
| Nov. 18 (764) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Private Council meeting at which Yoshizawa was questioned at length, and his assertions that Japan must have an agreement before withdrawal, and a new treaty reaffirming old treaties. |
481 |
| Nov. 18 (765) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Simon’s inquiry whether the United States would participate in a commission sent under article 15 of the League Covenant to report on the situation. |
484 |
| Nov. 19 | Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Far
Eastern Affairs of a Conversation Between the Secretary of State and
the Chinese Chargé Inquiry by Dr. Yen concerning the attitude of the United States toward the invoking of the Nine-Power Treaty, and Secretary’s reply that at the moment U. S. attention should be concentrated on the efforts at Paris. |
485 |
| Nov. 19 | From the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs at
Nanking to the Chinese Legation Japanese offensive against General Ma’s troops and Japanese determination to seize Tsitsihar. |
486 |
| Nov. 19 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Receipt of manifesto from Ministry of Foreign Affairs (text printed) reiterating China’s intention not to recognize any institutions established under Japanese occupation. |
486 |
| Nov. 19 (963) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Harbin: Report of attack on General Ma at Tsitsihar; information that Kirin Government has been set up at Pinhsien, subordinate to Central Government. |
487 |
| Nov. 19 | Memorandum of Trans-Atlantic Telephone
Conversation Between the Secretary and Dawes: Discussion of Dawes’ sitting on the Council and a possible statement concerning U. S. position in regard to League action; Secretary’s desire that Dawes not be present for discussion of sanctions although United States probably would not interfere with an embargo, and his opinion that the most the United States can do is denounce Japan’s action and refuse to recognize treaties created under military force. |
488 |
| Nov. 19 (235) | To the Ambassador in Japan (tel.) Instructions to report on the stability of the existing authorities and the report of plots against Shidehara and others. |
498 |
| Nov. 19 | Memorandum of Trans-Atlantic Telephone
Conversation Between the Secretary and Dawes: Information for Dawes that record instructions have been cabled, that if the League goes ahead, the U. S. position will be made clear immediately after; Dawes’ information that Japanese Government have consented to a commission. |
499 |
| Nov. 19 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Opinion that no further investigation at Tientsin is necessary. |
502 |
| Nov. 19 (426) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Information that the Department has made no commitments such as might be inferred from the New York Herald-Tribune article. |
502 |
| Nov. 19 (574) | To the Chargé in France (tel.) For Dawes: Observations on the Simon memorandum (as requested in telegram No. 750, November 16) pointing out that even if the parties agreed on the first three points, effective protection is not covered, and it is doubtful that Japan would agree to and carry out point 4. |
503 |
| Nov. 19 (575) | To the Chargé in France (tel.) For Dawes: Brief statement of U. S. position regarding Dawes’ mission to Paris, for his use if he deems it advisable in explaining his position to Briand. |
504 |
| Nov. 19 (576) | To the Chargé in France (tel.) For Dawes: Transmittal of a statement outlining U. S. position (text printed) to be given to the press if considered advisable. |
505 |
| Nov. 20 (970) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Mukden: Release by Japanese headquarters of news that Japanese have entered Tsitsihar. |
506 |
| Nov. 20 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Identic telegram (text printed) being sent by U.S., British, French, and German Ministers advising of resolution by the Party Congress authorizing Chiang Kai-shek to proceed to the North as commander in chief to watch events. |
507 |
| Nov. 20 | Memorandum of Trans-Atlantic Telephone
Conversation Between the Secretary and Dawes: Secretary’s reiteration that United States will offer no obstacles to sanctions; his opinion that if League orders an investigation, it would be better for United States not to participate; and his assertion that so long as the League is meeting, the United States will not invoke the Nine-Power Pact, but in case of League failure, the United States would consider it. |
507 |
| Nov. 20 (972) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Harbin: Information from Ohashi of efforts to protect Chinese Eastern Railway property. |
512 |
| Nov. 20 (771) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Conversation with Briand, the latter being informed of the U. S. position, in accordance with Department’s telegram No. 575, November 19, and the value of the conference method over attendance at League Council meetings. |
512 |
| Nov. 20 (229) | From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.) Information on the reported plot against Shidehara and others, and rumors concerning a possible change in the Government. |
513 |
| Nov. 20 (584) | To the Chargé in France (tel.) For Dawes: Advice that, in event of materialization of an agreement by China and Japan on a commission of neutral investigators, United States would withdraw its objection to having a representative on the commission. |
514 |
| Nov. 21 (774) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Information that Sze will propose a neutral and nonpartisan commission. |
514 |
| Nov. 21 | Memorandum of Trans-Atlantic Telephone
Conversation Between the Secretary and Dawes: Explanation by the Secretary of his information to the Japanese that, in view of their apparent treaty violations, he must now reserve the right to make public U. S.-Japanese correspondence on the subject, and of Japanese verbal assurances of a proposal soon to cover withdrawal; Dawes’ desire that Sze know of Japanese assurances in order to obviate too strong a statement from the Chinese. |
515 |
| Nov. 21 (586) | To the Chargé in France (tel.) For Dawes: Reminder, in connection with certain statements by Yoshizawa, that Secretary Hughes in 1922 appeared neither to have recognized nor denied the 1915 treaties between Japan and China, but reaffirmed U. S. reservations made in 1915. |
523 |
| Nov. 21 (773) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Transmittal of Sweetser’s report (text printed) of discussions at private Council meeting concerning a commission. |
523 |
| Nov. 21 (776) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Yoshizawa’s proposal, at public meeting of the Council, of a commission of inquiry; Chinese concurrence in the commission provided that it not furnish an excuse for delay in withdrawal of Japanese troops. |
526 |
| Nov. 22 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Conversation with Koo, who outlined a resolution before the Council for dealing with the Manchurian controversy and stated why it was unacceptable to China; his submittal of a counterproposal, with the desire to be informed of Washington’s attitude and suggestions concerning it. |
527 |
| Nov. 22 (777) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Report giving the form of the proposal for an inquiry commission and Sweetser’s explanation (texts printed). |
529 |
| Nov. 22 (980) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Mukden: Report of northward movement of Chinese troops, of possible Japanese attack on Chinchow, and of return of Pu-yi to Dairen. |
529 |
| Nov. 22 (983) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Report of dispatch of British and French observers to Manchuria; Minister’s desire that American Military Attach proceed to Chinchow in view of expected action there. |
531 |
| [22?] (985) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Shanghai: Tense situation in the International Settlement. |
531 |
| Nov. 22 (778) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Information through Sze that public sentiment in China may necessitate a further statement of Chinese attitude which will break up current negotiations; that China is beginning to feel that present League action may force it to act. |
532 |
| Nov. 22 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information from Koo that Foreign Affairs Commission has agreed upon Chinese draft of resolution and that it will be accompanied by an introductory statement (text printed) explaining China’s offer of this counterproposal. |
533 |
| Nov. 22 | Memorandum by the Secretary of
State Conversation with the Japanese Ambassador, who was informed of Secretary’s opinion that the neutral commission proposed by Japan would be futile without provision for a cessation of hostilities, that Japan’s offensive defense was unnecessary, and that an attack on Chinchow would be regarded as an aggressive act. |
534 |
| Nov. 22 (779) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Information that Simon and Drummond have prepared a new draft of the resolution (text printed), and as they realize that attitude of United States is what influences Japan and China most, have inquired if United States might consider suggesting this tentative declaration to both parties. |
535 |
| Nov. 22 (780) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Changes in Council’s tentative draft. |
537 |
| Nov. 23 (781) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Memorandum circulated by Sze (text printed) stating that inquiry without provisions for cessation of hostilities and Japanese withdrawal would prolong Japanese occupation and cannot be considered. |
538 |
| Nov. 23 (782) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Sweetser’s comments upon draft approved by Simon, Drummond, and Briand for submission to the Council members exclusive of China and Japan. |
539 |
| Nov. 23 (783) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Chinese Government’s request, through Sze, for Department’s comments on the Chinese suggested counterproposal (reported to Department by the Minister in China, November 22). |
540 |
| Nov. 23 (986) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Return of Captain Tenney from Harbin and departure of Colonel Margetts for Chinchow. |
541 |
| Nov. 23 (430) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Approval of suggestion to send the Military Attaché to Chinchow in regular course. |
541 |
| Nov. 23 (990) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Report from Mukden of Japanese issuance of a statement that seizure of foreign property by the Japanese military is to prevent unlawful seizure by Chang Hsueh-liang, former Chinese officials, or bandits. |
541 |
| Nov. 23 | Memorandum by the Secretary of State Call by the French Ambassador, who translated a telegram from the French Foreign Office indicating Briand’s desire that U. S. observers might be sent to Chinchow, along with the British and French; Ambassador’s explanation that the French idea was to observe the respective merits of the two sides. |
542 |
| Nov. 23 | Memorandum of Trans-Atlantic Telephone
Conversation Between the Secretary and Dawes: Secretary’s advice that he is transmitting a message for communication to Sze and that Briand and others may be informed later; his approval of the resolution in its present form, but desire that the resolution be made public before U. S. attitude is given out. |
543 |
| Nov. 23 (784) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Sweetser’s account of private Council meeting in which draft resolution was discussed and changes were recommended; Briand’s explanation that the draft would be presented to the Chinese and Japanese as a plan not yet approved and open to amendment. |
545 |
| Nov. 23 (589) | To the Chargé in France (tel.) For Dawes: Views to be communicated to Sze: (1) approval of the resolution before the Council; (2) opinion that Chinese counterproposal does not appear to be as effective and, furthermore, contains some impracticable provisions. |
547 |
| Nov. 23 (119) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) For the Minister: Transmittal of text of the telegram supra, with instructions to communicate its substance to the Chinese Government. |
549 |
| Nov. 23 (593) | To the Chargé in France (tel.) For Dawes: Suggestion that if Chinese are not inclined to approve the draft resolution in its present form, Briand might insist on Japanese evacuation of Tsitsihar; advice that Department is cabling Embassy in Tokyo to urge immediate withdrawal and to warn that an expedition against Chinchow would render useless further conciliation efforts. |
549 |
| Nov. 23 (790) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Changes in draft resolution made at a private Council meeting; information that Sze has agreed to communicate the revised form to his Government but has no hope of its acceptance. |
550 |
| Nov. 24 (791) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Sweetser’s comments on the League meeting in which draft resolution was amended in the light of earlier suggestions but was not formally presented to the Japanese in view of uncertainty of Chinese acceptance. |
551 |
| Nov. 24 (994) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Tientsin: Report that local American officials are confining their activities to protection of American interests. |
552 |
| Nov. 24 (792) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Transmittal of Sze’s telegram to his Government (excerpt printed) giving Department’s attitude toward the draft resolution; Dawes’ suggestions to Briand that U. S. attitude will not be revealed prior to publication of the resolution. |
552 |
| Nov. 24 (794) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Sze’s receipt from his Government of its minimum conditions: (1) immediate cessation of hostilities, (2) Japanese withdrawal of troops within a definite and short period, and (3) supervision by inquiry commission or by neutral observers of the evacuation. |
556 |
| Nov. 24 (795) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Sweetser’s report on League activities: Japanese denial of intentions to attack Chinchow; discussion of the draft resolution; suggestion from Briand that it would be helpful to have an expression of American views. |
556 |
| Nov. 24 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Inquiry by Koo as to attitude of British, French, and American Governments toward a possible formal proposal that China will withdraw troops from the Chinchow area provided Japanese give certain guarantees satisfactory to Great Britain, France, and United States. |
558 |
| Nov. 24 (592) | To the Chargé in France (tel.) For Dawes: Information that Tokyo has issued orders against an attack on Chinchow and appears likely to agree to the Council’s resolution; advice that French Ambassador has been informed of Department’s attitude. |
559 |
| Nov. 24 | From the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs at
Nanking to the Chinese Legation Information that Japanese are rumoring a Chinese attack on Japanese troops at Chinchow, but that actually Japan intends to launch an immediate attack. |
560 |
| Nov. 25 | From the Chinese Legation Information of Japanese intentions of further aggression and of Chinese resolution calling upon nations to invoke peace treaties and providing for reorganization of Chinese Government to dispel false propaganda that the Chinese people have no confidence in it. |
560 |
| Nov. 25 (798) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Statement given to Briand (text printed) indicating U. S. approval of resolution, with the understanding that it not be published until the resolution has been agreed upon by the Council members other than the disputant parties and has been made public. |
561 |
| Nov. 25 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Conversation with Wellington Koo, who was informed of Department’s attitude toward the Council’s resolution and toward the Chinese counterproposal; Chinese fear that by the time any commission reaches Manchuria the Japanese will be firmly entrenched. |
562 |
| Nov. 25 (437) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Instructions for the Consul General at Mukden to continue to emphasize to the Japanese Consul General the American interests in Antung Electric Light Plant and the losses suffered by them as result of its closure. |
563 |
| Nov. 25 (799) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Information that the Chinese counterproposal (text printed) has just been sent to Briand by Sze, but Sze has not yet asked that it be presented to the Council. |
563 |
| Nov. 25 (120) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) For the Minister: Instructions to make friendly suggestion to Koo, in reply to his inquiry, that withdrawal of Chinese troops from Chinchow area would be well advised, but that time does not permit the negotiations for the desired Japanese guarantees. |
564 |
| Nov. 25 (121) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) For the Minister: Information that Ambassador in Japan has been instructed to repeat to the Minister certain communications concerning Department’s attitude as presented to the Japanese Government. |
565 |
| Nov. 25 (803) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Transmittal of statement (text printed) handed by Sze to Drummond for communication to the Council, advising of Japanese convergence on Chinchow and requesting Council to establish a neutral zone between the Japanese and Chinese troops to prevent conflict. |
566 |
| Nov. 25 (804) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Sweetser’s report on private meeting of the Council, at which it was decided to issue to the press a communiqué giving a résumé of the draft resolution, and to send identic cables to Japan and China pertinent to the impending conflict at Chinchow. |
566 |
| Nov. 25 (805) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Transmittal of the communiqué issued by the League (text printed) giving substance of the resolution before the Council. |
568 |
| Nov. 25 (806) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Transmittal of the identic telegram (text printed) addressed by Briand to China and Japan concerning the situation at Chinchow. |
569 |
| Nov. 26 (1010) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Mukden: Indications of Japanese intentions to drive against Chinchow and to destroy Chang Hsueh-liang’s power and Nanking’s influence. |
569 |
| Nov. 26 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Communication of the Secretary’s friendly suggestion to Koo, who stated that the popular attitude at present would make difficult the withdrawal of troops from the Chinchow area, and that the Government must insist on a time limit for Japanese evacuation of troops in Manchuria because of public demand from all sides in China. |
570 |
| Nov. 26 (807) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Sweetser’s report concerning Sze’s receipt of promising instructions from his Government, and likelihood of Japan’s willingness to obviate conflict at Chinchow; decision of members to examine possibility of effecting a neutral zone at Chinchow. |
570 |
| Nov. 26 (808) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Letter from Drummond (text printed) advising that, in line with Council’s identic telegrams relative to Chinchow, it had been suggested that the various Governments might take similar individual action and might also dispatch as many observers as possible to that area, and that U. S. independent action along these lines would be helpful. |
571 |
| Nov. 27 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Conversation with Koo, who reiterated his statements regarding an evacuation time limit. Opinion that Chinese Government’s very existence depends on settlement of the time-limit question because of widespread public opinion. |
572 |
| Nov. 27 (123) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) For the Minister: Instructions to advise Military Attaché, now in Chinchow area, to cooperate fully with other foreign military observers in effort to find some means of preventing conflict between Chinese and Japanese forces. |
572 |
| Nov. 27 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information from Koo that Chinese Government believes that Japan is preparing for the attack on Chinchow but will withhold it until after the conclusion of the Council meeting; also that the Government cannot understand how the Council and Dawes can be misled regarding Japan’s intentions. |
573 |
| Nov. 27 (811) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Sweetser’s report of a conversation between Briand and Sze, the latter urging the fixation of a date for evacuation, even if conditional, and presenting a telegram from his Government (text printed) expressing fear over the situation at Chinchow. |
573 |
| Nov. 27 (1015) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information from Tientsin that Chinese have suggested policing by foreign troops of area near Japanese Concession, as the Japanese have demanded the withdrawal of Chinese police. |
575 |
| Nov. 27 (812) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Visit from Matsudaira, who referred to the question of increasing the number of members on the proposed commission from three to seven, and also expressed a desire to have a phrase in the resolution revised. |
575 |
| Nov. 27 (813) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Information from Sweetser concerning discussion by the Twelve Council members of the situation at Chinchow, and report by Briand of his conversation with Sze in which the latter stressed the need of an evacuation date. |
576 |
| Nov. 28 (1017) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Report from Military Attaché at Chinchow that, according to reliable information, Japanese will soon submit an ultimatum demanding Chinese evacuation of Chinchow, and that there is no evidence of Chinese preparation to take the offensive or to attack. |
578 |
| Nov. 28 | Press Release Issued by the Department of
State Secretary’s assertion at press conference (text printed) that Japanese Foreign Office was misinformed as to his remarks at press conference of November 27 (text printed) in which he expressed surprise over reported Japanese advance toward Chinchow after assurances from Shidehara. |
578 |
| Nov. 28 | Memorandum by the Secretary of
State Discussion of the Chinchow situation with the Japanese Ambassador who handed the Secretary two papers: (1) Suggestion made by Wellington Koo to U. S., British, and French Ministers at Nanking on November 24 (text printed); (2) Japanese reply (text printed). |
579 |
| Nov. 28 (249) | To the Ambassador in Japan (tel.) Instructions for Colonel McIlroy to proceed to Chinchow and to cooperate with Colonel Margetts in observation and liaison work there, provided such action will not embarrass his relations with the Japanese and the mission in which he is engaged upon their invitation. |
580 |
| Nov. 28 | From the Consul General at Tientsin (tel.) Report of further firing and Chinese proposal to withdraw troops from vicinity of Japanese Concession. |
581 |
| Nov. 28 (199) | From the Assistant Military Attaché in Japan to the
Adjutant General, United States Army Information from McIlroy of Japanese movements toward Chinchow and events at Tientsin. |
582 |
| Nov. 28 (815) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Sweetser’s report concerning the presentation to the Drafting Committee of China’s suggested changes in the Council’s draft resolution, and the ensuing discussion; decision that the Committee would send Sze a formula on evacuation, and that Sze would send in his views on the commission. |
583 |
| Nov. [28?] (1019) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Mukden: Unofficial statement by Japanese spokesman that troops are being withdrawn into the railway zone. |
586 |
| Nov. 28 (816) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Information received from Sweetser that Council has disturbing reports of the situation in Manchuria; meeting of the Drafting Committee, and formula proposed to satisfy Sze’s points on evacuation and a commission of observers. |
586 |
| Nov. 29 (240) | From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.) Information that the Foreign Office gave out its vigorous statement (referred to in Department’s press release of November 28) to placate the critics of Shidehara, who aroused public antagonism by presuming to speak for the War Minister and the Chief of Staff; hope that Department will make a conciliatory reply. |
587 |
| Nov. 29 (817) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Suggestion to Sze that the withdrawal of the Japanese across the Liao River, if true, would relegate to the academic the time-limit issue and save his Government’s prestige at home, enabling him to accept immediately the League’s settlement plan; suggestion that confirmation of the withdrawal report by observers at Chinchow could not but be welcome to both China and Japan. |
588 |
| Nov. 29 (241) | From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.) Conversation with Baron Shidehara, who denied authorizing Foreign Office statement attributing remarks to Secretary Stimson. Information that Foreign Office has now disavowed the statement. |
589 |
| Nov. 29 (818) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Information from Sweetser that Yoshizawa has urged upon Briand that Koo must continue the negotiations for a neutral zone at Chinchow, as it was on the basis of this Koo proposal that Shidehara persuaded the Japanese military to begin the present withdrawal; letter from the Japanese Government setting forth this position, and Briand’s reply (texts printed). |
590 |
| Nov. 30 (819) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Transmittal of Sweetser’s report: Japanese suggestions for revisions in the draft resolution; disinclination of members to allow to Japan a free hand in the protection of their interests in Manchuria, and suggestion that China should be given some assurance regarding a permanent organization of military observers. |
592 |
| Nov. 30 (443) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Instructions, in view of Dawes’ earlier suggestion, to advise the Military Attaché at Chinchow that the Department suggests the collaboration and dispatching by the Military Attachés, if possible, of joint or identical statements concerning actual progress of Japanese troop withdrawals. |
594 |
| Nov. 30 (250) | To the Ambassador in Japan (tel.) Instructions as to the importance of indicating specifically any communications which have been made to the Ambassador as strictly confidential, in view of the recent misunderstanding in connection with Shidehara’s assurances regarding Chinchow. |
595 |
| Nov. 30 (1025) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information that Marshal Chang offered to withdraw his troops to Shanhaikwan provided the Japanese would retire to Mukden, but that apparently the Japanese withdrawal had already begun. |
596 |
| Nov. 30 | Memorandum by the Secretary of State Call by the Japanese Ambassador to say that Japanese were evacuating and that Japan was ready to agree not to penetrate the Chinchow zone if the Chinese withdrew; his question as to whether an American would go on the commission of inquiry, and Secretary’s reply that an American would go provided both China and Japan agreed. |
596 |
| Nov. 30 (821) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Information that Sze is acting along the lines suggested and has submitted a statement to the Council (text printed) advising that if Japanese withdrawal can be verified, China will be willing to omit the time limit from the resolution. |
598 |
| Nov. 30 (822) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Transmittal of Sweetser’s report: Discussion by the Drafting Committee of China’s suggested amendments to the draft resolution; information that Japanese submitted a memorandum to the Committee renewing demands to include in the resolution the Japanese right for protection of their interests. |
598 |
| Nov. 30 (823) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Transmittal of Sweetser’s report: Japanese proposal of Chinese withdrawal from Chinchow, as Japanese evacuation has already begun; their insistence that the Japanese provision regarding protection against bandits be inserted in the resolution. New draft of the point on relationship between evacuation and the commission, accepted by Sze (text printed). |
601 |
| Dec. 1 (1027) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information that the Military Attaché at Chinchow is being instructed to concert with other observers and keep Department informed. |
603 |
| Dec. 1 (246) | From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.) Interview with Shidehara, who said that embarrassment still exists over the announcement that Japanese would not occupy Chinchow, transmittal of statements to the press (text printed) made by the Ambassador following appearance in the Japanese press of remarks attributed to the Secretary. |
603 |
| Dec. 1 (824) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Call from Matsudaira and discussion of treatment of the question of Japanese protection against bandits; Dawes’ belief that the Council will satisfy the Japanese on this point. |
604 |
| Dec. 1 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information from Koo that the Japanese are demanding that the Chinese evacuate Chinchow territory on the grounds that Koo’s tentative suggestion of November 24 was accepted by Japan as a formal proposal, Japan undertaking not to send troops into the territory except in emergency. |
605 |
| Dec. 1 (825) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Inquiry by the Italian representative as to an Italian delegate on the commission, and assurance to him that the Department considered appointment of the commission as entirely a League matter. |
606 |
| Dec. 1 (826) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Sweetser’s report on the completion of the final text of the resolution by the Drafting Committee and consideration of text of declaration to be made by the President, the latter including a paragraph (text printed) providing for Japanese protection and a paragraph intended to assure the Chinese that the observer system instituted would be effective in emergency; presentation by Yoshizawa of an aide-mémoire (excerpt printed) pertaining to Japanese acceptance of Koo’s proposal. |
607 |
| Dec. 1 (614) | To the Chargé in France (tel.) For Dawes: Advice that the bandit question should be limited to the protection of Japanese subjects and should be included in the President’s statement rather than in the Council resolution, in the opinion of this Government. |
609 |
| Dec. 1 (827) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Sweetser’s report that the Twelve members of the Council formally approved and submitted to China and Japan the draft resolution (text printed); that they also approved the principal parts of the President’s declaration and discussed the number and character of the members on the commission. |
609 |
| Dec. 2 (1030) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From the Military Attaché at Chinchow: Report by Chinese of Japanese withdrawal, but an observer has been unable to get through, to obtain the actual facts; suggestion that Mukden might be able to ascertain facts. |
611 |
| Dec. 2 (1031) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Mukden: Report of Japanese reenforcements being sent to Tsitsihar, of northward movement of Chinese troops and withdrawal of Japanese across the Liao River. |
612 |
| Dec. 2 (833) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Sweetser’s report of the Drafting Committee meeting at which Briand’s intentions for his final declaration were outlined, and the question of membership of the commission was discussed, with decision to consult China and Japan as to their suggestions; submission by the Japanese of a revised and more conciliatory aide-mémoire (text printed) relating to the situation at Chinchow. |
612 |
| Dec. 2 (834) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Sweetser’s report that neither Japan nor China is ready to discuss question of commission membership until the settlement of the Chinchow question; discussion by the Twelve of the Chinchow question and Sze’s insistence on neutral observers; Sze’s intention to refer various points to his Government. |
614 |
| Dec. 3 (1035) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Harbin: Arrival of foreign Military Attachés, including American, from Tokyo en route to Tsitsihar. |
616 |
| Dec. 3 (1037) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Colonel Margetts: Arrival of Lt. Aldrich at Liao River and his report of Japanese withdrawal except for guard duty and railway patrol. |
616 |
| Dec. 4 (451) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Instructions that Consul General at Mukden may bring to the attention of the Japanese Consul General the interest of R.C.A. in the radio station at Mukden and the losses incurred as result of its closure. |
617 |
| Dec. 4 (841) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Sweetser’s report that China would accept the draft resolution provided Japan did likewise, but that Japan asked to have Ito appear before the Drafting Committee to discuss Japanese reply; discussion by the Twelve of the Chinchow situation, and dispatch of a letter to Yoshizawa stating willingness to urge direct negotiations on China provided they had clarifications as to the scope of the negotiations. |
617 |
| Dec. 5 (843) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Information that Sze has been advised that his Government does not agree to withdrawal of troops south of the Great Wall; that Japanese representatives have received lengthy instructions and will probably reveal Japanese position today. |
620 |
| Dec. 5 (844) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Information that Japanese have taken a position opposing the linking of the commission with evacuation and insisting on recognition of Japan’s right to take police measures against bandits, but that Drafting Committee has prevailed upon Ito to seek reconsideration by his delegation. |
621 |
| Dec. 5 (845) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Transmittal of Chinese memorandum handed to the Twelve (text printed) setting forth China’s inability to accept the Japanese proposal for a neutral zone at Chinchow, as the Council’s action of November 26 is deemed to have settled the Chinchow question. |
621 |
| Dec. 5 (846) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Sweetser’s report of Ito’s appearance before the Drafting Committee with his Government’s suggestions for amending the draft resolution and the President’s declaration; and Committee’s suggestion that Ito’s delegation reconsider these points. |
622 |
| Dec. 5 (847) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Sweetser’s report of meeting of the Twelve, with decision to negotiate privately on the resolution with both parties, and to make an effort to bring an agreed resolution before a final public meeting on Monday or Tuesday. |
625 |
| Dec. 6 (848) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Sweetser’s report of Japanese Delegation’s attitude toward the bandit question and Ito’s proposal of a change of text relative to the commission; circulation of military reports indicating little change in the situation at Chinchow. |
627 |
| Dec. 7 (1047) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Military Attaché at Chinchow: Report of military situation at Chinchow. |
628 |
| Dec. 7 | Memorandum by the Secretary of
State Conversation with the Japanese Ambassador, who set forth the difficulties presented by the Chinese refusal to withdraw from Chinchow and intimated a possible Japanese advance; Secretary’s suggestion that the serious consequences of such an advance be urged upon Baron Shidehara and the importance of the immediate passage of the resolution pending before the League Council. |
629 |
| Dec. 7 (853) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Sweetser’s report of the Drafting Committee meeting in which changes in the resolution and declaration were suggested to Sze, principally in connection with Japanese objections to the relationship between the commission and evacuation. |
630 |
| Dec. 7 (854) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Transmittal of Japanese communication (text printed) setting forth proposed limits for the zone at Chinchow; decision of Council members to communicate to Shidehara a reply (text printed) indicating inacceptability of the terms and to make individual diplomatic representations in Tokyo against further aggravation of the situation. |
632 |
| Dec. 7 (855) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Sweetser’s report of the Twelve’s discussion of Japanese communication as to the Chinchow zone, with the feeling that it indicated the intentions of the Japanese military to advance on Chinchow and to kill the resolution. |
633 |
| Dec. 8 (856) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Sweetser’s report on developments: Tokyo’s acceptance of Ito’s redraft of the point linking the commission with evacuation, and Ito’s presentation to Drafting Committee of a draft of a unilateral declaration by itself concerning police measures (text printed); inacceptability of both drafts, in the form submitted to the Drafting Committee, which presented a new draft on police measures (text printed) for possible inclusion in the declaration. |
635 |
| Dec. 8 (1052) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information that T. V. Soong anticipated failure of negotiations for a neutral zone and had telegraphed Chang Hsueh-liang to resist in case of attack on Chinchow. |
636 |
| Dec. 8 | Memorandum of Trans-Atlantic Telephone
Conversation Between the Secretary and Dawes: Information from Dawes that the resolution will probably pass with Japanese reservations; Secretary’s instructions for Dawes to inform Matsudaira of the trend of U. S. public opinion and of the danger that an attack on Chinchow would crystallize the belief that Japan’s effort from the beginning had been to drive the Chinese out of Manchuria. |
637 |
| Dec. 8 (1056) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Margetts: Statement of observers, including Military Attach from Tokyo, that placement of Japanese troops is as reported by Japanese headquarters and that railway at Ying-kow is said to be repaired. |
641 |
| Dec. 8 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Recommendation that the United States decline, if asked by League members, to urge the Chinese Government to withdraw its troops from Chinchow, and opinion that Japanese are trying to accomplish through the League what they have been unable to achieve by force. |
641 |
| Dec. 8 (857) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Transmittal of the resolution and the declaration (texts printed) with indication of possible changes. |
642 |
| Dec. 8 (858) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Sweetser’s report that Sze has requested instructions from his Government; discussion by the Drafting Committee as to future action, and decision to attempt to draft something which would not offend Japan but would inform public opinion as to the military position reported by the observers. |
645 |
| Dec. 8 (119) | From the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) Conversation with Soong, who explained the precarious position of the National Government and stated that U. S. open support of the Government’s policy of reliance on international mediation might save the Government from possible downfall. |
647 |
| Dec. 8 (636) | To the Chargé in France (tel.) For Dawes: Instructions to ascertain the possible action of the Council in the event of failure of unanimity on the resolution or of a Japanese attack on Chinchow. |
648 |
| Dec. 8 (860) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Information that the resolution will be voted upon tomorrow afternoon unless Japan or China asks for further delay for instructions, but that public meeting will be held regardless and the resolution will be made public. |
648 |
| Dec. 8 (861) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Drummond’s transmittal to Dawes of suggestions (text printed) as to possible U. S. action pertaining to the commission and the military information; plans of the Twelve for the public meeting and the selection of the members of the commission; disinclination of the Drafting Committee to accept the new clause regarding police measures. |
649 |
| Dec. 8 (640) | To the Chargé in France (tel.) For Dawes: Instructions to ascertain the true form in which the Koo proposal regarding Chinchow was presented to the Japanese; opinion that if there is no warrant for the Japanese attitude, Briand should combat their contention. |
651 |
| Dec. 9 (864) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Drummond’s explanation of the Koo proposal, with the information that Briand did initiate negotiations, but that situation has been clarified to the Japanese. |
652 |
| Dec. 9 (865) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Information that Council expects the Japanese to agree to the resolution and has considered no possible action in the event of a refusal or in the event of an advance on Chinchow. |
653 |
| Dec. 9 (1061) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information that the Military Attaché at Chinchow has been instructed to remain there pending developments; request for Department’s approval. |
653 |
| Dec. 9 (867) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Sweetser’s report that Briand submitted a letter from Yoshizawa (text printed) pertaining to the fixing of the zone at Chinchow; discussion of procedure to be followed after adjournment of the Council and of possible participation by Dawes to indicate U. S. approval of the Council’s action. |
654 |
| Dec. 9 (868) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Reading of text of resolution and declaration at public meeting; Japanese request for a day’s delay to await instructions from Tokyo. |
656 |
| Dec. 9 (454) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Approval of Minister’s action as indicated in his telegram No. 1061, December 9. |
657 |
| Dec. 9 | Memorandum of Trans-Atlantic Telephone
Conversation Between the Secretary and Dawes: Secretary’s concern over the misunderstanding regarding the Chinchow zone, and discussion relative to reopening the question; Secretary’s desire to be informed whether the resolution passes. |
657 |
| Dec. 9 (869) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Sweetser’s report that public session of the Council went as planned, leaving only the question of police measures outstanding, the clause relating to it, however, to be settled in some form by Briand and Yoshizawa previous to tomorrow’s program and adjournment. |
661 |
| Dec. 9 (643) | To the Chargé in France (tel.) For Dawes: Secretary’s desire to issue a statement to give the public the impression of support to the League Council resolution, and suggestion that Dawes might make a similar statement in Paris. |
662 |
| Dec. 10 | Memorandum of Trans-Atlantic Telephone
Conversation Between the Secretary and Dawes: Explanation by Dawes of his intention of making a statement after the Council meeting relative to the misunderstanding over the Chinchow zone, in the hope of soothing public opinion in Japan and China; Secretary’s preference that statement be made by Briand. |
663 |
| Dec. 10 (871) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Information that he notified Briand that he would not make the statement (text printed) relative to the misunderstanding in regard to the Chinchow zone proposal. |
668 |
| Dec. 10 (1065) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information that the domestic crisis in China, and the loss of confidence in the League leave to the authorities in Peiping only two alternatives, either to fight or to yield to the Japanese demands regarding Chinchow. |
669 |
| Dec. 10 (872) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Transmittal of unilateral declaration to be made by the Japanese regarding bandits (text printed). |
670 |
| Dec. 10 (873) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Suggestion that his proposed statement regarding Chinchow might be the basis of a statement for later issuance by him or by the Secretary, as such an explanation offers the only chance of avoiding Japanese occupation of Chinchow. |
671 |
| Dec. 10 (874) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Transmittal of reply (text printed) to the Japanese unilateral declaration, as approved by the Twelve satisfying the juridical situation and removing the necessity for further discussion. |
671 |
| Dec. 10 (875) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Information that in his acceptance of the resolution Sze made certain observations and reservations (text printed) relative to treaty rights, the commission, and police measures. |
672 |
| Dec. 10 (D–160) | From the Consul General at
Nanking Conversations with various Chinese leaders who feel that the United States tempered what otherwise might have been a severe condemnation of Japan by the League, and that the United States could have held Japan to her international obligations if it had desired. |
673 |
| Dec. 11 (876) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Information of the unanimous adoption of the resolution. |
674 |
| Dec. 11 (879) | From the Chargé in France (tel.) From Dawes: Sweetser’s report that Council has adjourned after 25 days of continuous conferences. |
674 |
| Dec. 11 (1066) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Harbin: Report of a visit by the Japanese military to General Ma, who was informed that no anti-Japanese movements were to be allowed and that the Japanese had plans for the thorough reconstruction of the northeast; agreement of General Ma to the desirability of peaceful settlement. |
674 |
| Dec. 11 (1067) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information from Mukden that the movement for an independent Manchuria-Mongolia republic is gaining ground but, without Japanese support, would collapse; opinion of Consul General at Mukden that only foreign opposition or an early conference between Japan and China can prevent its establishment. |
675 |
| Dec. 11 (648) | To the Ambassador in France (tel.) Instructions to convey to Briand the gratification of President Hoover and the Secretary for the successful termination of the negotiations. |
676 |
| Dec. 11 (1069) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From the Military Attaché at Chinchow: Information that Japanese aircraft dropped bombs on Panshan-Yingkou railway, and that Peiping-Mukden Railway is not on regular schedule. |
677 |
| Dec. 11 | Memorandum by the Secretary of
State Conversation with the Japanese Ambassador, who said that the resignation of the Japanese Cabinet was undoubtedly due to the Manchurian situation; inquiry as to the Ambassador’s impressions on the Secretary’s attitude toward the use of a boycott, and the Ambassador’s statement that although he felt that the Secretary did not favor a boycott, he had never received any assurances to that effect. |
677 |
| Dec. 11 (458) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Instructions to inform the Military Attaché that his presence is still considered necessary at Chinchow. |
679 |
| Dec. 12 (259) | From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.) Intentions to await the appointment of a new Foreign Minister before discussing Chinchow misunderstanding; opinion that Inukai will be asked to form a new Cabinet. |
679 |
| Dec. 12 (264) | To the Ambassador in Japan (tel.) Instructions to discuss with Shidehara the misunderstanding over Chinchow unless it is deemed advisable to take it up only with Shidehara’s successor. |
679 |
| Dec. 12 (135) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) For the Minister: Opinion that the complications over the establishing of the Chinchow zone offer no objection which may not be worked out by negotiation; instructions to sound out Koo in this connection and to urge restraint from military activities, suggesting the possibility of some agreement. |
679 |
| Dec. 13 (262) | From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.) Interview with Nagai, Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs, who felt the Japanese had been treated curtly in the Chinchow proposal but did not indicate an early resumption of hostilities; Ambassador’s mention of interferences by the Japanese military in civil concerns, and Nagai’s request for a list of the cases. |
681 |
| Dec. 15 (315) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Conversation with Drummond concerning the arranging for the membership of the commission, which, according to the present program, will be comprised of one national each from Great Britain, France, Germany, Italy, the United States, and possibly from one smaller power; information that Walker D. Hines has been suggested as the American member, and request for Department’s views. |
682 |
| Dec. 15 (1081) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information that foreign military observers at Chinchow believe that Japan will find the means to compel Chinese troops to withdraw inside the Great Wall and Chinese regime at Chinchow to dissolve, and that only considerable pressure can prevent such action. |
683 |
| Dec. 15 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Advice that public opinion and the position of the Government make discussion of negotiation for an agreement concerning Chinchow inadvisable. |
684 |
| Dec. 15 (124) | From the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) Account of student opposition manifested at a meeting of the Central Executive Committee of the Nationalist Party at which Chiang Kai-shek had resigned all his posts and an Acting President had been appointed. |
686 |
| Dec. 16 (893) | From the Ambassador in France (tel.) Conversation with Briand, who expressed appreciation of the Secretary’s cooperation throughout the negotiations and was of the opinion that the Chinchow situation had improved. |
687 |
| Dec. 16 (1084) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Mukden: Information that the Chairman of the Province has been released and installed as Governor; opinion that this event foreshadows an early attack on Chinchow. |
687 |
| Dec. 17 (135) | To the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Advice that there is no objection to Hines’ appointment on the League Committee and that Hines is interested, but other work may prevent his acceptance. [Footnote: Information that Hines subsequently declined the invitation.] |
688 |
| Dec. 17 (270) | From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.) Information that the Cabinet has approved the sending of additional troops to Manchuria and Tientsin, that the military feel much stronger since the Cabinet change, and that the General Staff views this move as a gesture to induce peaceable withdrawal of Chinese troops. |
688 |
| Dec. 18 (423) | From the Ambassador in Japan Report on the autonomous power of the Japanese Army. |
689 |
| Dec. 19 (1105) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Mukden: Information of Japanese bombing of Tungliao. |
695 |
| Dec. 19 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Request for information for Koo concerning a Reuter report that the United States has addressed a further note to Japan expressing solicitude that Japan respect treaty obligations. |
695 |
| Dec. 19 (140) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) For the Minister: Information that Department has made no formal communications regarding Manchuria since December 10, and that Koo may be informed that the press report is in error and that this Government’s attitude is expressed in the Secretary’s press statement of December 10. |
696 |
| Dec. 21 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information that press statement of December 10 has been read to Koo; also that Koo has sent word of Japanese activity at Chinchow, inquiring if the United States can do anything to forestall an attack. |
696 |
| Dec. 21 (1113) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Mukden: Report that first railway battalion was sent to clear out bandits in the Changtu, Faku region, and that an official reception was held in celebration of the formation of the Provincial Government. |
697 |
| Dec. 21 (1114) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From the Military Attaché at Chinchow: Report of interview with General Honjo, who explained that he would attack Chinchow because of the activities of irregular troops and bandits; information that there is no evidence of unusual activity of Chinese troops. |
697 |
| Dec. 21 | Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Far
Eastern Affairs of a Conversation With the Chinese
Chargé Information from the Chargé that an attack on Chinchow is expected and that it would be necessary for China to fight; his inquiry as to whether the United States could and would protest. |
698 |
| Dec. 22 (205) | From the Military Attaché in Japan to the Adjutant
General, United States Army Announcement by Japanese headquarters of movements on Chinchow to drive out bandits; opinion that the action will result in Japanese occupation of the whole of Liaoning Province. |
699 |
| Dec. 22 | Memorandum by the Secretary of State Call by the French Ambassador, who conveyed the substance of a telegram from Briand relating to the possible attack on Chinchow, and stating that directions had been sent to the French Ambassador in Tokyo to make representations to the Japanese without waiting for the representatives of the other powers. |
700 |
| Dec. 22 | Memorandum of Trans-Atlantic Telephone
Conversation Between the Secretary and Dawes: Dawes: denial, in reply to Secretary’s inquiry, of a press story that he had secured from Sze and given to the Japanese an assurance that the Chinese garrison would withdraw from Chinchow area. |
701 |
| Dec. 22 (131) | From the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) Information that Sun Fo is to be President of the Executive Yuan and substantially Prime Minister but that it seems certain that Chiang and Soong can take effective military control over the Nanking-Shanghai area when desirous; general consensus that no Central Government could survive the popular opposition if Chinchow were surrendered without resistance. |
701 |
| Dec. 23 (275) | From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.) Information of French Ambassador’s representations to Tokyo in accordance with instructions, and of British Ambassador’s similar instructions. |
702 |
| Dec. 23 (275) | To the Ambassador in Japan (tel.) Transmittal of an editorial in the New York Herald-Tribune (excerpts printed) attributing certain action to Dawes, and instructions that, if necessary, the statements should be denied. |
703 |
| Dec. 23 (1125) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Dairen and Mukden: Report of Japanese military movements, with indications that the drive westward is imminent. |
704 |
| Dec. 23 | Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Far
Eastern Affairs Call of the new Chinese Minister to present his credentials; his expression of great apprehension over the Chinchow situation. |
704 |
| Dec. 24 (1126) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Mukden: Unofficial Japanese announcement of the capture of Faku and of other activities; advice that this is apparently the largest operation yet. |
705 |
| Dec. 24 | Press Release Issued by the Department of
State Announcement of instructions to the American Ambassador in Tokyo to make representations in view of reports of the Japanese military’s contemplated advance and to point out that the military observers find no evidence of a Chinese offensive. |
705 |
| Dec.[24?] (1127) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information from Tientsin of Japanese intentions to land troops there for precautionary purposes although there is no evidence to justify this action. |
706 |
| Dec. 26 (1129) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Harbin: Report that Ma has funds for three months and is acting under directions of Nanking although he has anxiety over expected Japanese operations. |
706 |
| Dec. 26 (1130) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Mukden and Chinchow: Report of clashes and Japanese air activities. |
706 |
| Dec. 26 (280) | From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.) Explanation of feeling among the Japanese military against the reported assurances that they would not attack Chinchow; request for instructions as to presenting the French Ambassador with a copy of the U. S. note. |
707 |
| Dec. 26 (278) | To the Ambassador in Japan (tel.) Instructions that French Ambassador may be given a copy of note in strict confidence. |
708 |
| Dec. 29 (1146) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information from Chinchow that railway company has been directed to assemble trains at Chinchow and the withdrawal of Chinese troops is expected. |
708 |
| Dec. 29 | From the Chinese Chargé to the Chief of the Division
of Far Eastern Affairs Transmittal of a telegram from the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs (text printed) placing upon Japan the responsibility for whatever consequences may result from Japanese insistence upon the railway administration’s transporting a number of soldiers to Tientsin, not in accordance with the Protocol of 1901. |
709 |
| Dec. 30 (1153) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information that Chang is withdrawing from Chinchow under pressure of Japanese arguments and in view of his lack of support from Nanking. |
710 |
| Dec. 30 (1154) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Mukden: Report of Japanese advances and of additional troop trains leaving Mukden. |
710 |
| Dec. 30 (1156) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information from Chinchow of Chinese withdrawal, which is to be completed within the week; authorization to Margetts to return at his discretion. |
711 |
| Dec. 31 | From the Consul General at Canton (tel.) Information that an order for the dissolution of the National Government at Canton is being issued. |
711 |
| Dec. 31 (1162) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From the Military Attaché at Chinchow: Information that Provisional Government will remain at Chinchow, and that the line of Japanese control is to be settled by diplomatic negotiation. |
711 |
| Dec. 31 | From the Appointed Chinese
Minister Transmittal of a telegram from the Chinese Ministry of. Foreign Affairs (text printed) citing Japanese advances as violation of the Council resolution and expressing the hope that the United States will take effective measures to prevent the aggravation of the present situation. |
711 |
| 1932 Jan. 1 (2) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From the Military Attaché at Chinchow: Report of confusion incident to Chinese withdrawal and of Japanese occupation of Kowpangtze. |
713 |
| Jan. 2 (4) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Nanking: Account of the reorganization of the Government, with the President of the Executive Yuan as virtual Prime Minister responsible to the Central Executive Committee of the party; preponderance of men from the Southern provinces; diminishing of prospects for a successful coalition government due to the absence of Chiang, Soong and others. |
713 |
| Jan. 6 (2) | From the Consul at Geneva (tel.) Transmittal of note from the Chinese delegation to the President of the Council (text printed) setting forth Japan’s violation of the Council’s resolution of December 10 and requesting the Council’s adoption of effective measures to deal with the situation; covering letter from Berthelot (text printed) advising of representations made by the French and other Governments. |
714 |
CHINA
Negotiations for Relinquishment by the United States and Other Powers of Extraterritorial Rights in China
| Date and number | Subject | Page |
| 1931 Jan. 2 (3) | From the Chargé in Great Britain (tel.) Foreign Office expression of appreciation for U. S. views as set forth in telegram No. 334, December 31, 1930, to the Ambassador in Great Britain; British opinion that with the gradual cessation of civil war in China, the demand for abolition of extraterritoriality would unite all factions and might result in anti-foreign boycott unless foreign governments make some gesture to meet the situation. |
716 |
| Jan. 13 (14) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Advice that the Department believes prompt action and the offer of some concessions desirable; information that a new draft of agreement covering relinquishment of extraterritorial rights will be ready shortly and that the British Government may submit new proposals at the same time. |
717 |
| Jan. 19 (16) | To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.) Instructions to request Foreign Office views on Department’s new draft proposals (being sent by mail); outline of principal changes in this draft as compared with draft of October 28, 1930. |
719 |
| Jan. 21 (35) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Outline of points that should be insisted upon in any settlement of the extraterritoriality question. |
721 |
| Jan. 27 (30) | From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.) Foreign Office expectation that it can accept all of the Department’s amendments as set forth in telegram No. 16, January 19. |
722 |
| Jan. 29 (46) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Comments of the British Chargé on the new U. S. draft proposals. |
723 |
| Jan. 30 (30) | To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.) Instructions to inform the British Foreign Office of the Department’s intentions to resume the discussion of extraterritoriality with the Chinese Minister, using the new proposals previously outlined as a basis therefor. |
724 |
| Feb. 3 (34) | From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.) Account of conference with Foreign Office experts, who expressed preference for gradual yielding by foreign governments rather than for such full acquiescence to Chinese claims as set forth in American proposals; summary of conversation (text printed) giving viewpoints approved by Foreign Office experts. |
724 |
| Feb. 7 | To the Chinese Legation Statement read and handed to the Chinese Minister, containing observations on various points with a view to adjusting the differences between the American and Chinese proposals. |
726 |
| Feb. 7 | Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Far
Eastern Affairs Oral statement to the Chinese Minister (text printed) pointing out that the internal problems of China must be taken into account by foreign governments in regard to the position of their nationals in China, and that the United States cannot assent to any arrangement failing to safeguard the interests of its nationals. |
730 |
| Feb. 10 (35) | To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.) Outline of the written and oral statements made to the Chinese Minister, with instructions to give to the Foreign Office the text of the former, explaining that it is to be considered a statement from one negotiator to another. |
732 |
| Feb. 10 (44) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Information on present status of extraterritoriality negotiations, and instructions to go to Nanking after the British Minister’s arrival there. |
733 |
| Feb. 20 | Memorandum by the Assistant Secretary of
State Conversation with the Chinese Minister, who presented a memorandum (printed infra). |
733 |
| Feb. 20 | From the Chinese Legation Statement by the Chinese Minister regarding main points on which U. S. and Chinese Governments differ. |
734 |
| Feb. 26 (67) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Transmittal of the Chinese statement, and observation that the Department’s best contribution at present will be temporarily to suspend its efforts and await developments; instructions to inform the British Minister and to ascertain, if possible, what the British Minister intends to propose, if anything. (Footnote: Similar information to the Embassy in Great Britain for communication to British Foreign Office.) |
736 |
| Feb. 27 | Memorandum by the Assistant Secretary of State of a
Conversation With the Norwegian Minister Minister’s advice that the Norwegian Government had officially informed the Chinese that when the Great Powers gave up extraterritorial rights, Norway would follow suit. |
737 |
| Mar. 3 (5) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) For the Minister: Instructions to reiterate to the British Minister, Sir Miles Lampson, that this Government is taking no new step for the moment; also to impress upon the Chinese Foreign Minister, Wang, the desirability of modifying his non-conciliatory attitude, and to inquire, if advisable, what his attitude would be toward a proposal to transfer the negotiations to Nanking. |
738 |
| Mar. 3 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information that the Japanese Chargé has received word that the Department has decided to drop negotiations at Washington and transfer them to China. |
739 |
| Mar. 4 (6) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) For the Minister: Advice that Debuchi (Japanese Minister in Washington) was told in strict confidence of the possibility of transferring negotiations, and that the Department is awaiting comment on Wang’s attitude before taking further action. |
740 |
| Mar. 4 (101) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Yunnanfu: Receipt of a communication from the Yunnan delegate of the Ministry for Foreign Affairs (text printed) advising that mixed cases will be treated the same as Chinese cases. |
740 |
| Mar. 7 (65) | From the British Embassy Transmittal of substance of instructions issued to Lampson (text printed) outlining points to which the British Government attach the greatest importance and for which they are prepared to relinquish others. |
741 |
| Mar. 7 | Memorandum by the Minister in
China Conversation with Dr. Wang, who was informed that the British and American Governments held in common the view that extraterritoriality should not be swept away all at once and without substitution of a better arrangement; observation by Dr. Wang that his Government could not make any concessions in regard to certain points and that a deadlock would result. |
743 |
| Mar. 8 | Memorandum by the Minister in
China Conversation with the British Minister, who related a conversation with Dr. Wang in which he was informed that the Chinese Government could make no concessions regarding the fundamental principles asked by the British. |
744 |
| Mar. 9 | Memorandum by the Assistant Secretary of State of a
Conversation With the Japanese Ambassador Information from the Japanese Ambassador that Japan is planning to begin extraterritoriality negotiations with China, pressing for gradual abolition, and hoping to work closely with Great Britain and the United States. |
745 |
| Mar. 9 | Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Far
Eastern Affairs of a Conversation With the Counselor of the Japanese
Embassy Counselor’s delivery of Japanese memorandum (printed infra), with explanation that it contained proposals which Japan intended to make to Chinese Government. |
746 |
| Undated [Rec’d Mar. 9] | From the Japanese Embassy Memorandum proposing a gradual relinquishment of extraterritorial rights in China and most-favored-nation treatment. |
747 |
| Mar. 9 (92) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Comment on the discussion of the question of extraterritoriality by the Consul at Yunnanfu with the Chinese authorities; instructions to advise American consular officers in China not to enter into discussion of extraterritoriality with Chinese authorities unless specific cases arise which necessitate such action. |
748 |
| Mar. 11 | Memorandum by Mr. Joseph E. Jacobs of the Division
of Far Eastern Affairs Conversation with the Chinese Minister concerning a reply to the Chinese statement of February 20; Department’s position that in view of the restricted nature of the Minister’s instructions, its only reply can be that contained in a statement (printed infra) which was handed to the Minister. |
749 |
| Mar. 11 | To the Chinese Legation Statement to the Chinese Minister advising that the Department is instructing the American Minister in China to undertake discussions with the Chinese Foreign Minister. |
751 |
| Mar. 12 | Memorandum by the Minister in
China Conversation with Dr. Wang, who could see no value in transferring the negotiations to China unless United States was prepared to concede the three controversial points. |
751 |
| Mar. 13 | Memorandum by the Assistant Secretary of
State Conversation with the British Ambassador, who outlined a discussion between Sir Miles Lampson and Dr. Wang in China, indicating little progress; discussion of the exact application of the term “international settlement” concerning Shanghai. |
753 |
| Mar. 14 (131) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Observation that the informal inquiries, made by the Consul at Yunnan in an effort to obtain information requested by the Department, may be revealing as to the exact nature of instructions from Nanking for Chinese control over foreigners having extraterritorial rights. |
754 |
| Mar. 14 (12) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) For the Minister: Outline for proceeding with the negotiations in China, with instructions to discuss the plan of action with British Minister. |
755 |
| Mar. 14 | From the Chinese Legation Information that the Foreign Ministry is unable to enter into a discussion of points raised in the Chinese statement of February 20 and would like to see the negotiations completed in Washington. |
758 |
| Mar. 16 (103) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Instructions to withhold issuance of the consular circular referred to in Department’s No. 92, March 9, or to phrase it so as to avoid a possible interpretation of criticism of Consul Stevens’ efforts at Yunnan. |
759 |
| Mar. 16 (14) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) For the Minister: Transmittal of Chinese Legation’s memorandum of March 14, with instructions to proceed as outlined in Department’s telegram No. 12 of March 14, and to report what transpires upon the delivery to Dr. Wang of Department’s statement of March 11. |
759 |
| Mar. 16 (71) | To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.) Outline of instructions sent to Lampson by his Government and of Department’s instructions to the Minister in China; information that the American Minister is to act in close cooperation but independently of British negotiators. |
759 |
| Mar. 17 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Transmittal, with comments, of the possible wording of certain articles (texts printed) worked out by Lampson and Wang and by Teichman and Hsu Mo. Request for Department’s comments on the texts. |
762 |
| Mar. 19 | Memorandum by the Minister in China of a
Conversation With the Chinese Minister for Foreign
Affairs Report of the delivery of Department’s statement of March 11 to Dr. Wang, who stated that the transfer of negotiations to China would not change China’s stand on the three main principles, that China had never accepted gradual relinquishment as a basis for negotiation but was ready to discuss the various legal guarantees. |
770 |
| Mar. 21 (81) | From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.) Transmittal of an informal letter from the British Foreign Office (text printed) indicating Lampson’s unexpectedly rapid progress in the negotiations. |
771 |
| Mar. 21 (15) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) For the Minister: Department’s comments on the tentative texts quoted in the Minister’s telegram of March 17. |
772 |
| Mar. 24 (16) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) For the Minister: Transmittal of information received from British Foreign Office on progress of British negotiations; advice regarding Department’s discussions with the Chinese Minister, Dr. Wu. Department’s desire (1) to avoid commitment, (2) to give the Chinese no opportunity for declaring a deadlock, and (3) to inject no factor to complicate the British negotiations. |
775 |
| Mar. 27 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Report of Lampson’s progress in the negotiations and his desire to discover how many of the legal guarantees can be disposed of before proceeding to more vital questions. |
777 |
| Mar. 28 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Transmittal of additional drafts (texts printed) tentatively agreed upon by the British Minister and the Chinese Foreign Minister in their latest conversation. |
778 |
| Mar. 28 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Comments on the tentative drafts transmitted earlier in the day (supra); information that texts have been sent to the British Foreign Office for comment and approval, and that they are, with the exceptions indicated, acceptable to the Chinese. |
782 |
| Mar. 30 | Memorandum by the Minister in
China Conversation with Lampson, who related a discussion with Dr. Wang concerning the more vital principles of the negotiations. |
784 |
| Mar. 30 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Opinion of the Minister and Lampson that the latter’s conversation with Wang will lead Wang to try to obtain new instructions likely to bear fruit quickly; opinion of the Minister also that any efforts on his part to begin conversations at present might lead to a postponement of action. |
786 |
| Mar. 30 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information from Foreign Minister that Dr. Wu has been informed of the Wang-Lampson negotiations and has been instructed to press negotiations in Washington. |
787 |
| Mar. 31 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information that Lampson has been informed of material reported in telegram of March 30, 1 p.m. (supra); opinion that Dr. Wang desires to see if United States will go further than the British before resuming negotiations with them. |
787 |
| Mar. 31 (18) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) For the Minister: Several changes desired by the Department in the drafts discussed in Minister’s telegrams of March 28. |
787 |
| Apr. 1 | Memorandum by the Minister in
China Discussion with Lampson concerning the term of validity of the treaty on extraterritoriality and the matter of reserved areas; conclusion as to the latter subject that United States and Great Britain should hold out for the reservation of Tientsin and Shanghai. |
788 |
| Apr. 8 | Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Far
Eastern Affairs of a Conversation With the Chinese
Minister Submittal by Dr. Wu of a new draft providing for legal safeguards and taking account of the points under discussion by the British and Chinese at Nanking. |
789 |
| Apr. 10 | Memorandum by Mr. Ransford S. Miller of the Division
of Far Eastern Affairs Discussion, between the British Ambassador, the Secretary, and the Under Secretary, of the use of force or other possible measures in the event of unilateral denunciation of the treaties by the Chinese Government; agreement that the possible postponement of the National Convention and the presentation of a revised Chinese draft for discussion appeared to relieve the situation for the present. |
790 |
| Apr. 13 | Memorandum by the Minister in
China Conversation with the Foreign Minister, who inquired as to the American attitude toward extraterritoriality negotiations and was informed that United States was desirous of reaching an understanding based on gradual relinquishment. |
791 |
| Apr. 15 (23) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) For the Minister: Advice that the views of the Department are in accord with the Minister’s remarks made to the British Minister, as set forth in the former’s memorandum of April 1. |
793 |
| Apr. 17 (25) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) Information that the 12 articles of the Chinese draft appear substantially acceptable provided that additional articles can be agreed upon later. |
794 |
| Apr. 18 | Memorandum by the Minister in
China Conversation with Lampson, who stated that the Chinese Minister in London had been handed an aide-mémoire outlining conditions under which the British Government was prepared to relinquish extraterritorial rights, giving up criminal jurisdiction provided Shanghai, Tientsin, Hankow, and Canton were excluded from the treaty. |
795 |
| Apr. 19 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Transmittal of amendments (texts printed) introduced into the previously prepared texts by agreement between Lampson and Wang. |
795 |
| Apr. 19 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Transmittal of draft articles (texts printed) covering military service, arrests, and shipping, worked out ad referendum between the British Minister and Dr. Wang, neither being committed to their acceptance. |
797 |
| Apr. 20 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Comments on the new drafts and amendments telegraphed to the Department on April 19; further information on status of Lampson-Wang negotiations. |
800 |
| Apr. 21 | Memorandum by the Minister in
China Conversation with the Vice Foreign Minister, who said that Wang was prepared to propose to his Government the exclusion of Shanghai from Chinese jurisdiction, and that if the treaties were not signed by May 5, his Government would unilaterally denounce extraterritoriality. |
802 |
| Apr. 21 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information as to French Minister’s attitude. Opinion that the proposals advanced so far, plus the exclusion of Shanghai, should be satisfactory to the United States. |
804 |
| Apr. 22 | Memorandum by the Minister in
China Conversation with the Vice Foreign Minister, who said that the Commission on Foreign Relations was prepared to consider the request for the exclusion of Shanghai for a limited time. |
805 |
| Apr. 23 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Comment that the American Minister and Lampson consider the Department’s suggested draft of article 9, given in its telegram No. 12, March 14, an excellent substitute for the former draft; Lampson’s opinion that the Chinese will yield in the cases of both Shanghai and Tientsin. |
806 |
| Apr. 23 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Receipt from Lampson of information showing the number of the articles so far discussed as agreed upon with Hsu Mo, of the Chinese Foreign Office and list of articles yet to be dealt with. |
807 |
| Apr. 23 | Memorandum by the Minister in
China Conversation with the Vice Foreign Minister, who stated that Dr. Wang believed the treaty would be signed within a few days and that the American Minister should make inquiry of the State Department and, if necessary, obtain authorization so that the treaty could be completed in Nanking simultaneously between China, the United States, and Great Britain. |
808 |
| Apr. 24 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information that the Norwegian Minister has effected an exchange of notes with China giving up extraterritorial rights on a most-favored-nation basis if and when powers participating in the Washington Conference on Pacific affairs relinquish such rights. Understanding that the Netherlands is negotiating for a similar exchange. |
809 |
| Apr. 25 (27) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) For the Minister: Department’s willingness to meet China’s wishes as to place of signature; opinion that a formal request should be received from the Chinese Government, through Minister Wu, before the issuance of full powers to the Minister in China; that time will be needed to scrutinize text prior to signing. Information that a tentative accord on certain articles has been reached in Washington, and that these texts and others on remaining subjects may be telegraphed soon. |
809 |
| Apr. 25 (106) | To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.) Transmittal of portion of Department’s telegram No. 27, April 25 (supra); advice that Department is trying to parallel Chinese-British accords as far as possible. Instructions to inform British Foreign Office. |
811 |
| Apr. 27 | Memorandum by the Minister in
China Conversation with Dr. Wang, who was informed of Department’s views concerning place of signature, issuance of full powers, and necessity for adequate scrutinization of the text. |
811 |
| Apr. 27 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information that Lampson has been informed of Department’s attitude as expressed in telegram No. 27 of April 25; account of further discussions between Teichman and Hsu Mo. |
812 |
| Apr. 27 | Memorandum by Mr. Joseph E. Jacobs of the Division
of Far Eastern Affairs Conversation with the Chinese Minister and the Third Secretary of the Legation, who were handed a new draft regarding extraterritoriality. |
813 |
| Undated | To the Chinese Legation Text of Department’s revised draft of treaty and of exchange of notes handed to the Chinese Minister on April 27. |
815 |
| Apr. 28 | Memorandum by the Minister in
China Information from Lampson concerning conversation with Wang, who said his final terms were the reservation of the International Settlement at Shanghai for not more than 3 years. |
827 |
| Apr. 28 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information from the British Minister of his present position regarding the negotiations, and of modifications of some articles (texts printed). |
829 |
| Apr. 29 | Memorandum by Mr. Joseph E. Jacobs of the Division
of Far Eastern Affairs of a Conversation Between the Chinese
Minister and the Chief of the Division Chinese Minister’s information that Dr. Wang may be able to submit to the Political Council a proposal for the exclusion of the International Settlement at Shanghai from the scope of the new treaty for a period of 3 years. |
831 |
| Undated [Rec’d Apr. 29] | From the Chinese Legation Text of the Chinese draft article in regard to the rights of residence and trade. |
832 |
| Apr. 30 (110) | To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.) Desire to know British views concerning Dr. Wang’s final terms regarding Shanghai; opinion that the British and American Governments should firmly refuse to be moved from the position taken regarding excluded areas. |
832 |
| May 1 | Memorandum by the Minister in China Report of a conversation between Lampson and Wang in which the latter was informed that the British found his final offer unacceptable; information that Lampson has proposed further discussions. |
833 |
| May 1 (127) | From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.) British inability to consent to fixing a time limit to surrender jurisdiction in the Shanghai International Settlement. |
834 |
| May 3 | Memorandum by the American Counselor of Legation in
China of a Conversation Between the American Minister in China and
the French Minister in China Inquiry by the French Minister as to the status of the British and American negotiations; assurance by the American Minister that it was not likely that signature would take place in the immediate future. |
835 |
| May 4 | Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Far
Eastern Affairs Conversation with the Chinese Minister in which he was informed that United States would listen to suggestions for a more logical delimitation of excluded areas but would not like to discuss a period of less than 10 years for the duration of the treaty. |
835 |
| May 4 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information from the British Minister that the Chinese find American proposals on personal status more acceptable than the British. Request for the American text for the information of the British Minister. |
836 |
| May 4 | Memorandum by the Minister in China Further discussion between Lampson and Wang on the question of reserved areas. |
837 |
| May 4 (33) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) For the Minister: Transmittal of draft article on personal status. Possibility that British and American texts may be worked into something acceptable to the three Governments. |
837 |
| May 5 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Report that People’s Conference met in the morning; that mandate issued May 4 puts regulations governing jurisdiction over foreigners into effect January 1, 1932. |
838 |
| May 6 | Memorandum by the Minister in
China Conversation with Dr. Wang, who expressed concern over a report that the United States had attempted to persuade the British not to go so fast in meeting the Chinese desires; his request for confirmation by the Department. |
839 |
| May 6 | Memorandum by the American Minister in China of a
Conversation With the Chinese Minister for Foreign
Affairs Discussion of the points insisted upon by the United States; Dr. Wang’s reiteration that his Government must insist on a term of not more than 3 years, although it might concede the exclusion of the area of Greater Shanghai. |
840 |
| May 6 | Memorandum by the Minister in
China Discussion with Lampson, who was at a loss to understand the motive behind Dr. Wang’s statement regarding U. S. attempt to dissuade British from going too fast in meeting Chinese wishes, but stated that he himself had observed to Dr. Wang that all the powers, including the United States, felt that the British were going too fast in the negotiations. |
841 |
| May 7 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Transmittal of changes made by the British in personal status draft which is now being considered by Hsu Mo. |
842 |
| May 8 (34) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) For the Minister: Instructions to keep in close touch with Lampson and, if expedient, to inform him of this Government’s willingness to drop the reservation of Hankow simultaneously with the British. |
843 |
| May 8 | Memorandum by the Minister in
China Conversation with the Japanese Chargé, who said that Japan was anxious to reach an accord with China on extraterritoriality; that Japan’s position was more complicated because of her interests in Manchuria. |
843 |
| May 8 | Memorandum by the American Minister in China of a
Conversation With the British Minister in China Information from Lampson that he had suggested to his Government the continuation of negotiations until agreement on certain points, when it would be time for a summer recess, after which negotiations could be resumed with a better chance for success. |
844 |
| May 8 (35) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) For the Minister: Instructions for reply to Dr. Wang concerning his reference to a report of U. S. attempt to dissuade British from going too fast in meeting Chinese wishes. Explanation of Department’s position on various points under discussion. |
845 |
| May 8 (36) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) For the Minister: Suggestion, in view of the possibility of a revision in 1934 of the Chinese-American treaty of 1903, of an exchange of notes (draft printed) defining consular rights and privileges. Instructions to consult with Lampson and report. |
848 |
| May 9 | To the British Ambassador Acknowledgment of a communication from the British Embassy indicating the British position on certain points; Department’s interest in the British suggestion of an international commission to study and make recommendations regarding excluded areas. |
849 |
| May 9 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Transmittal of draft article on personal status (text printed), worked out by Teichman and Hsu Mo, and recommended by the British Minister to his Government as probably acceptable to the Chinese. |
850 |
| May 9 (38) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) For the Minister: Instructions to make note of certain features of Department’s draft of April 27, to compare this draft with the Chinese-British draft, discuss with Lampson, and report. |
850 |
| May 12 (40) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) For the Minister: Advice that the Department is willing to accept the Teichman-Hsu Mo draft article regarding personal status if it is acceptable to the British and Chinese and if the reciprocity clause is deleted. |
851 |
| May 13 (130) | To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.) Advice from British Embassy that the British Government fears lest the American negotiations have conceded more than the British deem it wise to surrender in the question of personal status; opinion of the Department that this is another example of Chinese effort to play off Americans and British in order to obtain further concessions. |
852 |
| May 13 (21) | From the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) Issuance by the National People’s Convention of a manifesto (substance printed) declaring (1) that the people do not accord recognition to any of the unequal treaties previously concluded between the foreign nations and China, and (2) that the National Government will put into realization the freedom and equality of China. |
853 |
| May 14 | Memorandum by the Minister in
China Conversation with Dr. Wang, who was informed of the Secretary’s reply as set forth in telegram No. 35, May 8, to Nanking. |
853 |
| May 15 (147) | From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.) Information that the British Foreign Office concurs in the Department’s opinion expressed in telegram No. 130, May 13. |
854 |
| May 19 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information that British desire a change in the personal status draft but that the Chinese are unwilling to accept it; transmittal of revised texts of British-Chinese draft articles, notes, and letters (texts printed). |
854 |
| May 19 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Transmittal of British revision (text printed) of second paragraph of personal status article, and suggestion that the change be incorporated in the American draft for discussion with Dr. Wu. |
857 |
| May 19 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information from Lampson that the British feel it would not be opportune at present to bring up question of a consular convention with China, and that they expect to take up subject of consular rights in a commercial treaty after extraterritoriality has been disposed of. |
857 |
| May 19 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Request for instructions in the event the Foreign Office officially transmits the text of its mandate and regulations mentioned in telegram of May 5. |
858 |
| May 20 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Review of the status of the negotiations; comments on American draft, as requested in Department’s No. 38, May 9. |
858 |
| May 20 (42) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) For the Minister: U. S. attitude in case of Chinese official communication of the recent mandate and regulations. |
860 |
| May 20 (43) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) For the Minister: Advice that the Department’s interest in concluding an exchange of notes on consular rights arid privileges arises from a desire to remove the question from the realm of “interpretation”; expectation of discussing the question with Dr. Wu. |
861 |
| May 20 (44) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) Instructions to inform Department of the approximate boundaries of the reserved areas shown on the maps to be submitted by the British with article 16. |
862 |
| May 21 | Memorandum by the Minister in China Inquiry by Dr. Wang as to U. S. attitude toward the payment of Chinese taxes by American citizens, and his observation that when foreign citizens resident in the International Settlement and foreign concessions had to pay Chinese taxes, “die-hardism” would vanish. |
862 |
| May 23 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information that no maps have as yet been introduced into the discussion of reserved areas, but that maps of the municipal areas of the cities will be forwarded. |
863 |
| May 23 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information that the British and American Ministers agree that an exchange of notes on consular rights would be desirable. |
863 |
| May 24 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Transmittal of draft of article 21 (text printed) as accepted by the Chinese and sent to London for approval; information that the British Minister will insist upon a 10-year term for the treaty and 5 years for special provisions. |
863 |
| May 26 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Transmittal of Lampson-Wang draft of article 16 and exchange of notes (texts printed) regarding reserved areas. |
864 |
| May 27 | Memorandum by Mr. Joseph E. Jacobs of the Division
of Far Eastern Affairs of a Conversation Between the Chief of the
Division and the Chinese Minister Proposal by Dr. Wu of his Government’s willingness to exclude “Greater Shanghai” for a 3-year period in return for negotiations on the extra-Settlement road question at Shanghai; arrangement for redrafting some of the articles of Department’s April 27 draft. |
866 |
| May 27 | To the British Ambassador Acknowledgment of receipt of summary of correspondence between Foreign Office and British Minister in China, and concurrence in the views expressed on reserved areas. |
867 |
| May 29 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Comments and suggestions after comparison of latest Sino-British draft with Department’s draft; text of the draft article on excluded areas which is being submitted to the British Government for approval. |
868 |
| May 30 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information that the British Minister is still awaiting the reaction of his Government on texts submitted; opinion that, because of the Chinese political situation, it is better for United States to leave the question of reserved areas without commitment and await Chinese initiative. |
869 |
| June 2 | Memorandum by Mr. Joseph E. Jacobs of the Division
of Far Eastern Affairs of a Conversation With the Third Secretary of
the Chinese Legation Comments on the unfinished and controversial points of the re-draft of the Department’s April 27 draft. |
870 |
| June 3 | To the Consul General at Shanghai (tel.) For the Minister: Inquiry concerning the Sino-British provision regarding the Chinese legal counselor. |
872 |
| June 4 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Transmittal of pertinent paragraph of Sino-British declaration on legal counselors (text printed), giving Chinese legal counselor the same functions as the other legal counselors. |
873 |
| June 6 | Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Far
Eastern Affairs of a Conversation With the Chinese
Minister Inquiry by Dr. Wu as to Department’s attitude toward the Chinese proposal for the reservation of Greater Shanghai; Mr. Hornbeck’s opinion that there should be four reserved areas. |
873 |
| June 8 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information that, upon Dr. Wang’s refusal to accept British Foreign Office’s new version of article 21, Lampson agreed to alterations, subject to final approval by both Governments, and that Lampson and Wang then signed and exchanged the letters on June 6; that Lampson departed for Peiping and will not return unless instructed or unless it is possible to sign a treaty. |
874 |
| June 8 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Transmittal of article 21 and of the letters exchanged between Lampson and Wang (texts printed). |
875 |
| June 12 (184) | From the Chargé in Great Britain (tel.) Information that Dr. Wang was not optimistic as to his Government’s approval of the Tientsin reservation, and that the British Foreign Office is concerned over the status of British residents in case the treaty safeguards and the Shanghai reservations are made coterminous. |
876 |
| June 13 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information that Consul General Peck at Nanking has’ received a formal note from Foreign Ministry (substance printed) announcing the resignation of Minister Wu and proposing that the negotiations be continued in Nanking; also a personal letter from Dr. Wang requesting American Minister’s return to Nanking. Request for instructions. |
877 |
| June 16 | To the Consul General at Shanghai (tel.) For the Minister: Instructions to telegraph the full text of the formal note and to return to Nanking in order that Wang may indicate what he has in mind; advice that the Sino-British text is not entirely what the Department would wish to duplicate, and that the Department desires that Wang be requested to instruct the Chinese Legation to continue its work on the draft with the Department. |
877 |
| June 17 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Transmittal of the formal note and the personal letter (texts printed) received by Peck; information that the Minister is proceeding to Nanking. |
879 |
| June 20 | Memorandum by the American Minister in China of a
Conversation With the Chinese Minister for Foreign
Affairs Dr. Wang’s consent to the continuation of the discussions now going on in Washington; and his discussion of the Sino-British draft for the reservation of Shanghai and Tientsin. |
879 |
| June 21 | Memorandum by the American Minister in China of a
Conversation With the Japanese Chargé in China Outline of the terms presented to Dr. Wang by the Japanese Chargé under which Japan would consider relinquishment of its extraterritorial rights in China. |
881 |
| June 21 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Suggestion that some arrangement covering patents and copyrights be incorporated in the treaty. |
881 |
| June 22 | To the Consul General at Shanghai (tel.) For the Minister: Authorization to return to Peiping on June 26. |
882 |
| June 23 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Opinion that the Japanese Government will be unyielding in what it considers its position in Manchuria under the treaties of 1915. |
882 |
| June 24 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Comments on the views expressed in the Department’s telegram of June 16. |
883 |
| June 27 | Memorandum by Mr. Joseph E. Jacobs of the Division
of Far Eastern Affairs Information that a new draft has been prepared by Weigh and Jacobs in which three points remain unfinished: (1) reserved areas, (2) ratification, and (3) exchange of notes; suggestion that the draft be submitted to the Solicitor for comment and then mailed to the Minister in China. |
884 |
| June 30 (379) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information from Lampson that his Government has approved his action in the negotiations except for article 16, on which he is awaiting comment. |
885 |
| July 2 | Memorandum by Mr. Joseph E. Jacobs of the Division
of Far Eastern Affairs Further discussions with Weigh on certain paragraphs of the draft. |
886 |
| July 6 (536) | To the Minister in China Transmittal of draft prepared by the Department and the Chinese Legation, with the article on reserved areas blank. Advice that instructions in regard to the draft and future negotiations will follow. |
887 |
| July 8 | Memorandum by Mr. Joseph E. Jacobs of the Division
of Far Eastern Affairs Changes made by Jacobs and Weigh in the light of comments of the Assistant to the Legal Adviser. |
888 |
| July 13 (228) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Advice that the Department is mailing to London, for the consideration of the British Foreign Office, a memorandum (excerpt printed) concerning article 16 (reserved areas), together with texts of the draft article and the exchange of notes relating thereto (texts printed). |
890 |
| Undated | Draft of a Treaty Between China and the United
States of America, Revised as of July 14, 1931 Treaty text, together with declarations and exchanges of notes, tentative and without commitment. |
893 |
| July 17 (550) | To the Minister in China Transmittal of Department’s draft of July 14 and of an additional paragraph (text printed), concerning patents and copyrights, for insertion in the Joint Declaration if the Foreign Minister agrees. |
908 |
| July 30 (471) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Inquiry as to whether it would be expedient, by supplementary legislation and treaty, to place Chinese aliens under jurisdiction of Federal courts in personal status matters, thereby permitting the use of the British reciprocal clause. |
909 |
| Aug. 3 (486) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Suggestion that the clause excluding the area of Greater Shanghai from the application of the treaty might be dangerous, as it might be desirable to have certain provisions applied in this area; suggestion of a change in wording. |
910 |
| Aug. 10 (270) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Department’s reasons for not wishing to undertake, by treaty and supplementary legislation, the placing of Chinese aliens under the jurisdiction of Federal courts in personal status matters; transmittal of alternative wording, possibly more acceptable to the Chinese. |
910 |
| Aug. 31 | Memorandum by the Minister in
China Discussion with Lampson of the advisability of introducing a proposal providing that a foreign defendant be permitted to be accompanied by his lawyer in the course of trials before a procurator. |
911 |
| Sept. 4 (569) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Inquiry as to the Department’s purpose in dropping certain words which were used in the British draft. |
911 |
| Sept. 10 (320) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Department’s position with respect to the clause questioned in the Minister’s telegram No. 486, August 3. Information that the Department, with a view to guarding against double taxation, has revised the paragraph (excerpt printed) regarding taxation in the Shanghai and Tientsin areas. |
912 |
| Sept. 10 (321) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Explanation of the omission from the Department’s draft of certain words contained in the British draft. |
913 |
| Sept. 17 (592) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Receipt, through Peck, of a personal letter from Wang (text printed) requesting the Minister’s return to Nanking and the resumption of the negotiations; opinion that there is no reason for not proceeding with the negotiations, although the British hope for delay on the part of the United States. |
914 |
| Sept. 18 (328) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Information that the Department has received no comment from the British on its memorandum of July 14 and infers that the British wish to defer commitment, hoping for American delay. Instructions to proceed to Nanking on other matters and await instructions concerning extraterritoriality. |
915 |
| Sept. 24 (337) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Instructions to reply to Dr. Wang that this Government had actually instructed the minister to be prepared to go to Nanking, but that recent events have resulted in his instructions to remain in Peiping. |
916 |
| Oct. 6 (709) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information that the British are not ready to agree to a new proposal regarding Shanghai, but that they believe American negotiations should go ahead with a view to ascertaining the Chinese attitude. |
916 |
| Oct. 6 (2297) | From the Ambassador in Great
Britain Information that Department’s memorandum of July 14 was delivered to the British Foreign Office and that a reply, dated October 5, is being forwarded. |
917 |
| Oct. 26 (101) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) For the Minister: Advice that a memorandum received from the British Foreign Office, dated October 5, shows a decided preference for the Sino-British draft on reserved areas; Department’s opinion that discussion of extraterritoriality with the Chinese might be left in abeyance for the present. Instructions to discuss the British memorandum with Lampson if he has received a copy. |
917 |
| Oct. 27 (964) | To the Ambassador in Great Britain U. S. reply (text printed) to the Foreign Office memorandum of October 5, advising that the Department will keep in mind British views on reserved areas. |
918 |
| Nov. 2 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Opinion of the British and American Ministers that, if the Chinese resolve their differences, it would be wise to continue negotiations with the hope of an agreement by the end of 1931. Request for instructions as to sounding out the views of a new Foreign Minister, if one is installed. |
919 |
| Dec. 1 (129) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) For the Minister: Instructions to consult informally with the Acting Foreign Minister and to suggest, if advisable, that the Department will authorize resumption of negotiations if he desires, but believes the question should remain in abeyance for the present. |
920 |
| Dec. 15 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information that no steps have been taken to implement the Chinese mandate of May 4, and that the political situation is so disturbed as to delay serious discussions on extraterritoriality for some time. |
921 |
| Dec. 17 (137) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) For the Minister: Advice that the Department has had certain indications that, although complete preparations for implementing the May 4 mandate have not been effected, steps have been taken which may lead to unfortunate incidents after January 1. |
922 |
| Dec. 19 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Discussion with the Acting Foreign Minister, Dr. Koo, concerning the mandate and the question of resumption of negotiations; opinion of Koo that U. S. readiness to continue negotiations would greatly aid in the handling of the mandate problem. |
923 |
| Dec. 19 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information from Dr. Wu that the Government is going to be preoccupied with reorganization during the next 2 weeks. |
924 |
| Dec. 19 (139) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) For the Minister: Request for comments and suggestions in view of the possibility that the Chinese will implement the mandate. |
924 |
| Dec. 19 | To the Chinese Legation Advice that U. S. Government is prepared to continue extraterritoriality negotiations at any time, but that the moment does not appear opportune and it would seem advisable to let the matter continue in suspension. |
924 |
| Dec. 21 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Impossibility of anticipating what action the Chinese may take on the mandate; suggestion that the only course left to United States if Chinese Government attempts to put mandate into effect, is to notify the Government of the unacceptability of the situation and to point out U. S. willingness to continue negotiations. |
925 |
| Dec. 23 | Memorandum by the Under Secretary of
State Conversation with the British Ambassador, who brought in a memorandum giving the substance of instructions to Lampson and inquired as to the Department’s attitude; Under Secretary’s assertion that United States would stand firmly on its treaty rights in the event the mandate was put into effect. |
926 |
| Dec. 28 | To the British Embassy Outline of the Department’s views on the status of extraterritoriality; opinion that the question of the enforcement of the mandate of May 4 may arise in some case involving an extraterritorial foreigner and that in the event of the foreigner’s being an American national, the United States would find it necessary to lodge a vigorous protest and to stand upon its treaty rights. |
927 |
| Dec. 29 | Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Far
Eastern Affairs of a Conversation With the British
Ambassador Informal suggestion by Hornbeck that the powers most interested in extraterritoriality arrive at an informal understanding enabling them to prepare in advance for simultaneous and similar action in case the Chinese should attempt jurisdiction over an extraterritorial national by virtue of the mandate; Ambassador’s view that it would be best to confine the understanding to the British and American Governments. |
928 |
| Dec. 30 (1152) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Nanking: Issuance of mandate, December 29, by the Chinese Government postponing the effective date of the mandate of May 4. |
931 |
| Dec. 31 (1158) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Nanking: Transmittal of the mandate of December 29 (text printed). |
931 |
| Dec. 31 (476) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Outline of points for the Minister’s guidance in the event any question or difficulty should arise involving jurisdiction over American nationals. |
932 |
Measures Taken by the United States for the Protection of American Lives and Property in China
| Date and number | Subject | Page |
| 1931 Jan. 19 (373) | To the Minister in China Instructions for consular officers to continue advising American citizens not to travel or reside in unsafe areas; for them to advise Chinese authorities that, while consular officers desire to cooperate in the prevention of untoward incidents, notification to them of the unsafe condition of certain areas does not remove the responsibility placed by existing treaties upon the Chinese Government for the protection of American citizens. |
933 |
| Jan. 20 (32) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Hankow: Information that Rev. Bert N. Nelson (American Missionary kidnaped in 1930) has been removed to Anhwei and that the military authorities have been urged to effect his release; suggestion that the case be brought again to the attention of the Nanking authorities. |
934 |
| Jan. 26 (7) | From the Consul General at Hankow (tel.) To the Legation: Report of firing on the U. S. S. Tutuila and the Mei Lu, Standard Oil Company vessel, above Hankow. |
934 |
| Jan. 26 (381) | To the Minister in China Authorization to inform the Foreign Ministry that the United States is in sympathy with the Chinese Government’s efforts to curtail smuggling and similar malpractices but feels that there should be recorded full reservation of treaty rights for American vessels in Chinese waters; comments on Chinese practices as compared with U. S. Coast Guard procedure. |
935 |
| Jan. 31 (49) | From the Minister in China (tel.) To Nanking: Telegram from Hankow (text printed) giving the whereabouts of Nelson and Tvedt (Norwegian missionary) and bandits’ demands for medicines and cash for their release; instructions to request the Foreign Ministry to urge the military to press this matter to a conclusion. |
936 |
| Feb. 2 (50) | From the Minister in China (tel.) To Nanking: Communication from Hankow (text printed) advising that Mayor Liu Wen-tao promised to attempt to effect Nelson’s release through Chiang Kai-shek. |
936 |
| Feb. 2 (8) | From the Consul General at Hankow (tel.) To the Legation: Report of firing upon the U. S. gunboat Panay and the S. S. Ichang, Yangtze Rapid Steamship Company vessel, at Temple Hill. |
937 |
| Feb. 3 (10) | From the Consul General at Hankow (tel.) To the Legation: Report of firing upon Yangtze Rapid Steamship Company vessels at Temple Hill and other points. |
937 |
| Feb. 4 (12) | From the Consul General at Hankow (tel.) To the Legation: Report of firing upon the U. S. S. Oahu and upon the Mei Lu. |
937 |
| Mar. 10 (115) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Hankow: Report of a letter from Tvedt and one from Nelson (text printed) telling of beatings at the hands of the captors and their strong demands for ransom money. Suggestion that a personal appeal to Chiang Kai-shek might stimulate the Chinese military to action or that the Department might lodge a protest with Dr. Wu, the Chinese Minister in Washington. |
938 |
| Mar. 10 | Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Far
Eastern Affairs of a Conversation With the Chinese
Minister Information for Dr. Wu that the American Minister in China has been instructed to bring the matter of Nelson’s captivity to the attention of the highest Chinese authorities and that the Department hopes that Dr. Wu will urge upon his Government the importance of the matter. |
939 |
| Mar. 10 | To the Chinese Legation Information of the treatment received by Nelson and Tvedt from the bandits, and expression of hope that the Chinese Government will make every possible effort to effect the release of the men. |
939 |
| Mar. 10 (8) | To the Consul at Nanking (tel.) For the Minister: Instructions to make urgent representations to the Foreign Minister with a view to effecting immediate release of Nelson and Tvedt. |
940 |
| Mar. 11 | From the Minister in China (tel.) To Hankow: Information that Foreign Minister is telegraphing authorities to use all means to effect release of the captives. |
940 |
| Mar. 12 | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Hankow: Information that Skinsnes (American missionary) has been advised to send medicines and money, but that bandit activities further complicate the situation. |
941 |
| Mar. 14 (21) | From the Consul General at Hankow (tel.) To the Legation: Report of Skinsnes’ activities and of a letter from Nelson expressing gratitude for the efforts to effect his release. |
941 |
| Mar. 16 (22) | From the Consul General at Hankow (tel.) To the Legation: Promise of General Ho Chen-chun that he would telegraph General Chao Kwan-tao to issue a permit for Dr. Skinsnes’ messenger to carry medicines to the brigands’ camp; belief that the only plan offering hope is sending money and medicines. |
941 |
| Mar. 17 (142) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information that the Foreign Ministry will permit dispatch of medicines for ransom of Nelson. |
942 |
| Mar. 17 (23) | From the Consul General at Hankow (tel.) To the Legation: Receipt of telegram from Skinsnes (text printed) reporting a letter from the captives as to their location and state of health. |
942 |
| Mar. 23 (27) | From the Consul General at Hankow (tel.) To the Legation: Information that messengers carrying money and medicines were robbed by comrades of the escort, and that a brother of Nelson and two others have left for Macheng with an escort. |
943 |
| Mar. 26 (170) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Hankow: Telegram from Nelson’s brother and his party (text printed) reporting refusal of the Macheng authorities to do anything; opinion that more pressure should be exerted from Nanking. |
943 |
| Mar. 28 (173) | From the Minister in China (tel.) (From the Counselor of Legation.) Information from the Minister that he has sent a telegram to Hankow (text printed) advising of the Foreign Ministry’s promises to order an advance against the Red brigands to effect the release of Nelson and Tvedt, and requesting Hankow’s confirmation of General Hsia’s receipt of the orders and his action. |
944 |
| Mar. 30 (178) | From the Minister in China (tel.) (From the Counselor of Legation.) Hankow’s telegram to the Minister at Nanking (text printed), advising that Nelson’s brother has telegraphed from Macheng that General Hsia Tou-ying has left for Hankow. |
944 |
| Apr. 2 (182) | From the Minister in China (tel.) (From the Counselor of Legation.) From Hankow: Telegram to Nanking (text printed) advising of the impression that the burden of rescuing the captives and suppressing the bandits has been placed upon Generals Li Ming-chung and Ho Chen-chun; belief that a drive will be started soon. |
945 |
| Apr. 2 (914) | From the Minister in China Review of correspondence and action taken in connection with the occupation by Chinese troops of mission property in Kiangsi and other places. |
945 |
| Apr. 6 (32) | From the Consul General at Hankow (tel.) To the Legation: Report of firing upon Iling above Ichang and of rumors of fighting in Szechuan between Liu Hsiang and Teng Shih-an factions. |
952 |
| Apr. 7 | From the Consul General at Hankow (tel.) To the Legation: Report of higher demands by bandits for the release of Nelson and Tvedt, and of plan for paying ransom through secret agents on condition that the captives are delivered to a designated point first. |
953 |
| Apr. 8 | Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Far
Eastern Affairs of a Conversation With the Chinese
Minister Expression of hope by Mr. Hornbeck that Nelson would be released soon; also that the Chinese Minister would give some thought to a memorandum handed to him on the Chinese occupation of mission property in Fukien Province. |
953 |
| Apr. 9 (34) | From the Consul General at Hankow (tel.) To the Legation: Report of firing upon the Iping by Government troops; opinion that an effort was being made to stop the vessel for search for Communists. |
954 |
| Apr. 13 (35) | From the Consul General at Hankow (tel.) To the Legation: Details of the firing upon the Iping and the casualties inflicted by the armed guard from the U. S. S. Guam in returning the fire. Information that General Koh has requested that representations be made to the American Minister. |
954 |
| Apr. 13 | From the Chinese Minister for Foreign Affairs to the
American Minister in China Transmittal of telegram from the Ichang Area Garrison Headquarters (text printed) concerning the Iping incident, and request for U. S. investigation and assurance that such incidents will not recur. |
955 |
| Apr. 18 | From the American Minister in China to the Chinese
Minister for Foreign Affairs Reply to the Chinese representations concerning the Iping; with explanation as to the firing by the armed guard; expression of regret for the incident, which was due apparently to a misunderstanding and the lack of information regarding Chinese procedure. |
956 |
| Apr. 18 | From the American Minister in China to the Chinese
Minister for Foreign Affairs Protest to the Chinese Government concerning the boarding and commandeering of a Yangtze Rapid Steamship Company vessel by Government troops, and request that instructions be issued to prevent recurrence. |
957 |
| Apr. 20 | Memorandum by the Minister in
China Conversation with the Foreign Minister, who was informed in an aide-mémoire of the capture by bandits of Esther Nordlund, an American citizen, and other missionaries. (Footnote: Report as to release of the missionaries later.) |
957 |
| Apr. 20 (38) | From the Consul General at Hankow (tel.) To the Legation: Report of the release of Tvedt on payment of $6,500 by mission authorities, and of prospect for early release of Nelson. |
959 |
| Apr. 21 (39) | From the Consul General at Hankow (tel.) To the Legation: New demands of the bandits for gramophone records and other articles for the release of Nelson. |
959 |
| May 1 | From the Chinese Minister for Foreign Affairs to the
American Minister in China Transmittal of another communication from the Ichang Area Garrison Headquarters (text printed) concerning the Iping incident. Reservation of right to claim indemnification for Chinese losses. |
959 |
| May 4 (43) | From the Consul General at Hankow (tel.) To the Legation: Report that bandits have declined to release Nelson and are making further demands; that military operations have been started against Red brigands by Government troops. |
960 |
| May 11 (46) | From the Consul General at Hankow (tel.) To the Legation: Receipt of a telegram from Sungpu (text printed) reporting delay of messengers; information that military would not permit the delivery of materials for the ransom of Nelson. |
961 |
| May 20 | From the Consul General at Canton (tel.) Report of fighting in Hainan and of British Consul General’s request for naval assistance. |
961 |
| May 24 | From the Consul General at Canton (tel.) Information that all American missionaries at Hoihow are safe; that the British vessel Somme will remain at Hoihow until the situation is normal. |
962 |
| May 29 (49) | From the Consul General at Hankow (tel.) To the Legation: Information that the go-between has not secured the release of Nelson but is returning to the bandits’ headquarters to insist on his release on the conditions previously named and met. |
962 |
| June 9 (328) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Foochow: Information that the Fifty-sixth National Division is planning to make a stand against the Reds and is outnumbered; request for a U. S. naval vessel at Foochow to afford the Consulate some means of communication with the Legation. (Footnote: Dispatch of the U. S. S. Pillsbury to Foochow.) |
962 |
| June 11 (54) | From the Consul General at Hankow (tel.) To the Legation: Information that Nelson is well, that bandits have decided to keep him as an English teacher but are making still further demands for various articles. |
963 |
| June 16 | From the American Consul General at Hankow to the
Chinese Chairman of the Hunan Provincial Government Account of the halting and boarding of a Yangtze Rapid Steamship Company vessel under the authority of martial law, of which no notification had been given; request that the Consulate at Hankow be informed of search barriers or prohibited sailings in Hunan Province so that American shipping companies may be notified. |
964 |
| June 23 | Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Far
Eastern Affairs of a Conversation With the Apostolic Delegate to
China Discussion concerning the safety of missionaries in China, and related problems. |
965 |
| June 23 (311) | From the American Minister in China to the Chinese
Minister for Foreign Affairs Reply to Chinese note of May 1 in regard to the Iping incident; request for advance notice on the institution of new procedure in order to avoid such incidents. |
969 |
| July 8 (397) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information that the Chinese Government has formally fixed 12 nautical miles as a limit for the customs preventive service; assumption that Department will wish the Foreign Office to be informed that it cannot accept a unilateral claim of sovereignty beyond the customary 3-mile limit. |
970 |
| July 22 (238) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Instructions (in reply to the telegram, supra) that for the present no protest need be made. |
971 |
| July 31 | From the Minister in China to the Consul General at
Nanking Aide-mémoire for the Chinese Foreign Ministry (text printed) making representations in regard to the occupation and destruction of American mission property by Chinese troops. |
971 |
| Aug. 13 (L–71) | From the Consul General at Nanking to the Minister
in China Delivery to the Foreign Minister of Department’s aide-mémoire, with explanation that U. S. Government reserves the right to claim damages for losses inflicted by Chinese troops. |
973 |
| Aug. 31 (91) | From the Consul General at Hankow (tel.) Report of Communist firing upon a Standard Oil Company vessel and other Communist movements; opinion that the situation at Hankow may require increase of American naval forces for protection of Americans. |
974 |
| Oct. 17 (94) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) For the Minister: Suggestion that on some appropriate occasion the Nelson case be taken up with the Foreign Ministry. |
975 |
| Nov. 25 (1005) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information from Hankow that bandits consider Nelson a very important person and believe that he or his mission could raise an additional $50,000 if necessary; request of Consul General at Hankow for authorization to send a communication to the bandits minimizing the importance of Nelson and stating that the American Government has never considered paying ransom for Nelson nor for any other American citizen in China; opinion of the Minister that this communication would be unwise, and request for Department’s views. |
975 |
| Nov. 28 (442) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Department’s opinion that communication should not be addressed to the bandits by the Consul General but that it might be addressed to Dr. Skinsnes, who might see that the substance became known to the bandits. Caution against any action that would lead the bandits to consider that the life and safety of Nelson are not of concern to the American Government. |
977 |
| Dec. 12 (125) | From the Consul General at Hankow (tel.) Report that Chinese soldiers of salt revenue guard boarded American motor vessel Ifung, and that upon their refusal to leave, American armed guard exploded tear gas bombs. |
978 |
| Dec. 18 (128) | From the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) Advice that Consulate General has circulated a letter to American citizens in the Kiangsu and Anhwei areas, advising them to retire from the interior unless, for exceptional reasons, they believe protection can and will be afforded them. |
978 |
| Dec. 23 (127) | From the Consul General at Hankow (tel.) Information that no representations have been made by the Chinese regarding the Ifung incident and are not believed likely. |
979 |
| Dec. 24 | From the Vice Consul at Foochow (tel.) Report of the capture of Harriet J. Halverstadt, American missionary, and advice that Provincial Government is being urged to take prompt action for her release. |
979 |
| Dec. 27 (1133) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Nanking: Information that the kidnaping of Miss Halverstadt has been taken up with the Foreign Office. From Foochow: Information that the Provincial Government is half-hearted in its efforts to obtain Miss Halverstadt’s release, and that prospects of release are uncertain. |
979 |
| Dec. 30 (473) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Instructions to advise the Foreign Ministry of the Department’s concern over the capture of Miss Halverstadt; also of its great anxiety with regard to the safety of American citizens in China. |
980 |
| Dec. 31 (1160) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Nanking: Representations made to the Foreign Office over the capture of Miss Halverstadt. (Footnote: Miss Halverstadt’s release, January 3, 1932.) |
980 |
Efforts of the United States To Meet Situation Created by Imposition in China of Taxes Considered Unfair to American Trade
| Date and number | Subject | Page |
| 1931 Jan. 21 (757) | From the Minister in China Report of the collection from American firms of a further duty at Shanghai after their payment of regular duties at the original port of shipment; information that the Foreign Ministry, in reply to the Legation’s representations, made no attempt to justify or regularize the double collection of taxes; request for instructions on further action. |
981 |
| Jan. 26 (380) | To the Minister in China Department’s observations, based on provisions of Sino-American treaty of 1844 and others, with respect to reported attempts of the Chinese military authorities in northern Honan to extort forced loans from Chinese agents of an American company engaged in the sale of kerosene. |
982 |
| Jan. 29 (388) | To the Minister in China Comments concerning excessive fees charged by Shanghai authorities in licensing American plumbing contractors, and advice that the principles set forth in Department’s instruction No. 546 of June 2, 1927, should be applied. |
983 |
| Feb. 4 (244) | From the American Minister in China to the Chinese
Minister for Foreign Affairs Information of the collection of a military surtax at Hsiakwan on certain products imported into Kwangsi by the Standard Oil Company of New York; request that action be taken to discontinue the tax as it is in contravention of the decision of the National Government to abolish likin and similar taxes as from January 1, 1931. |
985 |
| Feb. 16 (71) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Hankow: Summary of provisional regulations governing the imposition of a business tax in Hupeh which is intended to be applicable to American firms. To Hankow: Information that provisional regulations are in violation of treaty rights, but that American firms should be informed and that any attempt to enforce the measures against them should be reported. Information that the Japanese have declined to comply with similar regulations at Hunan. Request for instructions. |
986 |
| Feb. 20 (62) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Instructions to authorize Hankow to inform the Chairman of the Hupeh Provincial Government that the regulations cannot be considered applicable to American firms. |
987 |
| Feb. 23 (26) | From the Consul General at Canton to the Minister in
China Information that the Hsiakwan tax has been ordered discontinued and that the Standard Oil Company has been informed. |
987 |
| Feb. 24 (83) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information regarding a tentative agreement between the consular body and the Consolidated Tax Administration of the Ministry of Finance for the application of rolled tobacco tax regulations in the International Settlement of Shanghai, applicable only to Chinese residents. Request for Department’s instructions as to the desirability of the Legation’s concurring in the agreement. |
988 |
| Feb. 27 (70) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Advice that Department perceives no objection to the agreement set forth in the Minister’s telegram No. 83, February 24. |
988 |
| Mar. 1 (93) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Report from Hankow of possible strong efforts by authorities to collect business tax from foreign firms; efforts of authorities at Foochow and Chefoo to enforce a similar tax; British position that the tax is in violation of treaty rights. Inquiry as to what policy the Department desires to follow in this regard. |
989 |
| Mar. 6 (85) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Instructions to use Department’s telegram No. 62, February 20, as a guide in answering inquiries concerning the business tax; authorization to make representations to Nanking in the event the Chinese attempt to enforce the tax. |
990 |
| Mar. 6 (107) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Nanking: Information that procedure for collection of business tax has not yet been promulgated. |
990 |
| Mar. 24 (434) | To the Minister in China Instructions, in connection with the double collection of export dues from American firms at Shanghai, to make further representations to the Chinese Government, basing the request for refund of duties on general principles of international law and U. S.-Chinese treaties. (Footnote: Information that Minister sent a note to the Foreign Minister dated May 8.) |
991 |
| Apr. 11 (932) | From the Minister in China Information concerning the collection from American citizens in Tsinanfu of a Chinese house tax, considered nondiscriminatory by the American Consul at Tsinan, who has suggested its payment as a voluntary contribution toward the support of municipal services and has secured exemption for American missionary residences. Recommendation that the Consul’s action be approved. |
992 |
| May 19 (494) | To the Minister in China Approval of the action taken by the Consul at Tsinan in regard to the Chinese house tax. |
993 |
| June 25 (367) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information that the new business tax law has been passed by the Legislative Yuan but not promulgated by the State Council; that the Foreign Ministry states that it does not contravene the principles of taxation and requests that American merchants be instructed to pay it. |
993 |
| June 30 (380) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information of proposed 25 percent surtax on customs duties at Foochow and of a products tax at Hankow, reported in telegrams from the respective Consuls (texts printed); transmittal for Department’s approval of a proposed reply to Foochow (text printed), and inquiry as to Department’s attitude toward a protest against the Hankow tax on the grounds of lack of notice to American firms concerned. |
993 |
| July 3 (220) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Advice that the Department is studying the taxation questions raised in the Minister’s telegram No. 380, June 30, but, pending further instructions, approves the proposed reply to Foochow. |
994 |
| July 15 (230) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Instructions to oppose any attempt of Chinese municipal authorities at Shanghai to enforce new foreshore-property regulations against American nationals. |
995 |
| July 23 (456) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information concerning consular body’s proposal with respect to extending the agreement concerning the application of the rolled tobacco consolidated tax to non-extraterritorial foreigners in the Shanghai International Settlement. Request for instructions. |
996 |
| July 27 (249) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Approval of protest against surtax at Foochow, and outline of bases for representations in case authorities attempt to collect the surtax; opinion that Hunan and Hopei taxes appear to be objectionable on the same grounds. |
998 |
| July 31 (256) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Concurrence in Legation’s views that any change in the existing agreement for the application of the rolled tobacco consolidated tax should be made by following the same procedure which brought about the agreement. Instructions to refer any proposed modification to the Department for approval. |
1000 |
| Aug. 11 (508) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Proposed note to the Chinese Foreign Ministry (text printed) requesting that the new foreshore-property regulations be canceled or modified so as to ensure American rights. Information that the British have made a similar request. |
1000 |
| Aug. 17 (1123) | From the Minister in China Formal note to the Chinese Foreign Minister (text printed) pointing out the objectionable features of the new Chinese National Business Tax Law and requesting that the whole question be given careful consideration. |
1001 |
| Aug. 17 (278) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Approval of proposed note transmitted in the Minister’s telegram No. 508, August 11, with deletion of one sentence and appropriate change in another. |
1004 |
| Sept. 15 (583) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Shanghai: Information that foreshore regulations have been revised and that the Standard Oil Company has been approached again for permit fee. |
1005 |
| Sept. 25 (364) | From the American Minister in China to the Chinese
Minister for Foreign Affairs Protest against certain taxes in Hunan collected in the form of surtax, and request that instructions be issued to stop collection of these imposts on American shipments. |
1005 |
| Oct. 3 (694) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information from Shanghai that in revised foreshore regulations two points are involved: (1) application for a permit from Land Bureau and (2) payment of a license fee. Suggestion by Consul General at Shanghai and Minister’s concurrence, that this be accepted as a compromise and American firms be advised that there is no objection to paying the fee. |
1006 |
| Oct. 9 (373) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Inquiry (1) as to whether official notification of the revised foreshore regulations has been received, (2) whether a reply has been received from the Foreign Ministry to the Legation’s note of August 20 (authorized by Department’s telegram No. 278, August 17), and (3) as to the British attitude. |
1007 |
| Oct. 20 (795) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information that formal notification of the revised foreshore regulations was received in reply to Legation’s note of August 20, and that the British believe that acceptance of the regulations is advisable if owners of riparian property are pressed by Chinese authorities. |
1008 |
| Nov. 9 (895) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information from the Japanese Legation that the Japanese Government is not in a position to accept the revised foreshore regulations. |
1008 |
| Dec. 4 (376) | From the American Minister in China to the Chinese
Acting Minister for Foreign Affairs Protest against a “Production-Consumption Tax” in Hunan, which is indistinguishable from likin, and request that instructions be issued to the proper authorities to effect the abolition of this tax. |
1009 |
Application of Chinese Jurisdiction to American Missionary, Educational, and Medical Enterprises and Personnel in China
| Date and number | Subject | Page |
| 1931 June 3 (309) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Reports from Chefoo and Tientsin (texts printed) concerning new regulations requiring the registration of foreign physicians with Consuls; opinion that such registration would result in further encroachment by Chinese authorities upon extraterritorial privileges and in unfair pressure being brought to bear upon nonregistered physicians. |
1010 |
| June 16 (198) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Department’s opinion that American physicians practicing in China are under American jurisdiction and not subject to Chinese authorities, but that in the absence of appropriate American laws, consular officers may properly comply with the Chinese request, subject to the understanding that jurisdiction over American citizens in China must be retained by appropriate American officials. |
1011 |
| July 10 | Memorandum by the American Consul General at Nanking
of a Conversation With the Chinese Acting Minister of
Education Discussion of American interest in education in China; Consul General’s reference to the registration with the Chinese authorities of many American institutions in China. |
1012 |
Retention of United States Army Forces in China
| Date and number | Subject | Page |
| 1931 Apr. 24 (26) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) For the Minister: Information that the War Department has raised the question as to retaining further U. S. Army forces at Tientsin and has been informed by the Department that it would not be opportune at present to consider the question in view of the extraterritoriality negotiations. Request for opinion as to the withdrawal and as to the value of this Government’s indicating its willingness in principle to take such action. |
1013 |
| Apr. 27 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Opinion that the time will soon arise when the question of voluntarily withdrawing U. S. Army forces from Tientsin will arise, but that any mention now would be unwise and should be delayed until the conclusion of the extraterritoriality agreement. |
1014 |
| May 20 | To the Secretary of War Opinion that American forces should not be removed from Tientsin without consulting other powers concerned, and that such action should not be taken until the situation in China has changed somewhat and certain questions under negotiation have been disposed of. Nonobjection to a gradual and inconspicuous reduction in the number of the force. |
1015 |
| June 29 | Memorandum by the Assistant Chief of the Division of
Far Eastern Affairs of a Conversation With Major Hayes A. Kroner of
the Military Intelligence Division, War
Department Discussion regarding a Washington press despatch released in Peiping reporting a reduction in American forces at Tientsin, to be effective September 1. |
1015 |
Attitude of the Department of State on the Export to China of Arms or Munitions, Including Military Aircraft
| Date and number | Subject | Page |
| 1931 June 8 | Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Far
Eastern Affairs of a Conversation With Mr. Rogers of the Bureau of
Aeronautics, Department of Commerce Explanation of the Department’s policy of exporting arms to China only on consignments known to be approved and desired by the Nanking Government; and of exportation of commercial planes without licenses. |
1016 |
| June 12 | Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Far
Eastern Affairs of a Conversation With the Counselor of the British
Embassy Observation by Mr. Hornbeck that the British policy, indicated by present holding up of shipments of arms for Canton in the absence of approval of the Nanking Government, appears to be identical with U. S. policy. |
1018 |
| June 24 (312) | From the American Minister in China to the Chinese
Minister for Foreign Affairs Acknowledgment of note from the Foreign Ministry which requested that American merchants be instructed that no local government in China would be permitted to contract for the purchase of arms except under a permit from the Central Government; information that American consular officers in China are being informed for the benefit of interested persons. |
1018 |
| July 9 (406) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Hong Kong: Complaint of local agent of L. E. Gale Company, American firm, that shipments of military supplies are being made freely from European countries to Hong Kong for the Cantonese Government. |
1019 |
| July 11 (417) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Canton: Confirmation by Canton Aviation Bureau of shipments of military airships from England and Germany, and information from the Bureau that an order has been placed with an American company, probably L. E. Gale Company, for 12 American military airships to be exported as commercial aircraft and to be armed at Hong Kong. |
1019 |
| July 18 (237) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Instructions for Canton and Hong Kong to report through the Legation any instances of military equipment and airplanes being shipped from United States or other foreign countries to the Canton authorities, and to report cases of the use of commercial planes for military purposes. |
1020 |
| July 21 (41) | From the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) Request from the Chinese Finance Minister that the United States forbid the exportation of eight Lockheed Vega planes purchased by the Canton Government for conversion into military planes. Assertion by the United Aircraft Export Company that the British authorities at Hong Kong do not impede British sales of fighting planes to Canton. |
1020 |
| July 22 (42) | From the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) Receipt of an aide-mémoire from the Chinese Foreign Office concerning the planes mentioned in telegram No. 41, July 21, requesting prohibition of export on the basis of U. S. regulations for the transportation of war materials. Information from the British authorities that the Barcelona Convention prevents their interfering with cargoes consigned to Canton. |
1021 |
| July 27 (60) | To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.) Advice that the Department is taking steps to prevent exportation unless planes are accompanied by export licenses duly issued by this Department in conformity with the established requirements, but that it does not guarantee success of its efforts. |
1022 |
| July 30 (276) | From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.) Information from the British Foreign Office that export license for military materials is given only to shipments destined for and with the known sanction of the Nanking Government, that the Hong Kong Government is conforming to this policy, but that commercial planes can be exported to any place without an export license. |
1022 |
| July 31 | Memorandum by the Vice Consul at Nanking of a
Conversation With Major Wu Hjeh-shek of the Aviation Bureau at
Nanking Assertion by Major Wu that the Cantonese have purchased planes from Great Britain and Germany, and his request that United States Government take all possible steps to prevent their purchase of civil model planes in view of the ease with which such planes can be fitted for military use. |
1023 |
| Aug. 1 | Memorandum by the Consul General at Nanking of a
Conversation With the Assistant Director of the Department of
General Affairs, Chinese Ministry of Foreign
Affairs Inquiry by the Chinese official as to the possibility of the United States’ preventing the shipment of European planes to Canton through Manila. |
1023 |
| Aug. 5 (260) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Information from the War and Commerce Departments that Vought Corsair planes and Douglas planes, with the exception of amphibians, are primarily for military purposes, and that the Treasury Department is being notified of the State Department’s opinion that these planes should be exported to China only on the issuance of an export license by the Department. |
1024 |
| Aug. 19 (1126) | From the Minister in China Note to the Foreign Minister advising that United States is taking steps with a view to preventing the shipment of eight Lockheed Vega planes to Canton. |
1025 |
| Oct. 23 (815) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Canton: Report from Gale’s Hong Kong representative concerning Far East Aviation Company’s dealings with the Canton Aviation Bureau; his objection that British sales of military aircraft to Canton, if continued, would have adverse effect on American trade. |
1026 |
| Nov. 13 (990) | To the Ambassador in Great
Britain Transmittal of copy of telegram No. 815, October 23, from the Minister in China, with instructions to bring this information to the attention of the Foreign Office and report any comments. |
1026 |
| Dec. 12 (339) | To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.) Advice of the confirmation, by Department of Commerce data, of the telegraphic report from Canton transmitted in instruction No. 990, November 13. Request for early action and report. |
1027 |
| Dec. 14 (461) | From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.) Report that matter of British delivery of planes to Canton Aviation Bureau has been taken up with the Foreign Office but that the latter is not yet able to make comment. |
1027 |
| Dec. 23 (1340) | From the Minister in China Information that the difficulties encountered by American firms in the sale of aeroplanes in South China will probably disappear in the reorganization of the National Government; opinion that if a political reconciliation between the Chinese factions does not occur, it would appear unjust to handicap American merchants at Canton in view of British policy. |
1027 |
Protection of Title Deeds to Real Property of Americans in China
| Date and number | Subject | Page |
| 1931 Feb. 18 (814) | From the Minister in China Transmittal of a despatch from the Consul General at Shanghai (excerpt printed) reporting a decision of the High Court of Kiangsu excluding Americans and other foreigners (except possibly missionaries) from holding perpetual leases on land outside” the definitely prescribed limits of treaty ports and foreign settlement areas. Opinion that such decision will lead to difficulties unless the extraterrioriality agreement provides a definite safeguard for such property rights. |
1028 |
| Feb. 26 (407) | To the Minister in China Instructions to advise American consular officers in China, except the Consul General at Shanghai, to take no further steps toward the issuance of title deeds to property in China in the name of an American citizen unless satisfied that there is substantial American interest in the property. Advice, however, that the International Settlement and the French Concession at Shanghai should come under a uniform practice established by all the powers concerned. |
1028 |
| Mar. 27 (172) | From the Minister in China (tel.) From Hankow: Information that vernacular newspapers have published a proclamation by the Municipal Government requiring the submission of “white deeds” for stamping before April 1 or the imposition of a fine; request for instructions, as owners of white deeds hesitate to submit them. |
1030 |
| Apr. 6 (129) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Advice that foreign land titles and fees on land transactions are questions being considered in the extraterritoriality negotiations and that American holders of white deeds must act, meanwhile, on their own judgment, but that if fees on previous land transactions are not involved, American purchasers would be wise to obtain red deeds when the procedure is based on reasonable Chinese legislation. |
1031 |
| June 8 (507) | To the Minister in China Advice that the recent action of the Chinese in withdrawing from foreigners the privilege to purchase land at Mokanshan constitutes no valid ground for protest; instructions, however, to report any impairment of existing American property rights as a result of the regulations. |
1032 |
| Nov. 5 (1248) | From the Minister in China Information from the Consul General at Shanghai that his colleagues are not, at the present time, disposed to effect any change in the procedure for the issuance of consular title deeds at Shanghai, as the matter is closely connected with the credit and finance situation. |
1033 |
Efforts for the Consideration of American Claims Outstanding Against China
| Date and number | Subject | Page |
| 1931 Jan. 3 (3) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Instructions to inform the Chinese Government, if considered advisable, that the American Government desires to cooperate but cannot assent to the tentative plan for settlement of claims against China (as set forth in Minister’s telegram No. 997, November 21, 1930) until informed of the treatment to be accorded to the total outstanding obligations owed to American interests. Inquiry as to possible attitude of Chinese Government toward a Sino-American claims commission. |
1034 |
| Jan. 9 (15) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Understanding that the Foreign Ministry desires as complete a list of contractual obligations as possible with a statement of sums due. Information that the attitude of other governments toward the Chinese tentative plan has not been determined. |
1035 |
| Jan. 12 (17) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Opinion that it would not be premature to request statements from American creditors, as, until these statements are prepared, no further discussion can be carried on with the Finance Minister. |
1036 |
| Jan. 16 (27) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information that Dr. Wang Chung-hui, Chairman of the Commission for the Reorganization of China’s Domestic and Foreign Loans, has been advised of the attitude expressed in Department’s telegram No. 3, January 3. |
1036 |
| Mar. 7 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Proposal of an agreement for a claims commission to the Foreign Minister, who felt that his Government would object but desired to consider the matter. |
1037 |
| Mar. 7 | Memorandum by the Minister in
China Discussion with Foreign Minister regarding the claims arising from damage to American property at Changsha in 1930; Chinese position that Government was not liable for damage done by rebels. (Footnote: Information that the Foreign Minister subsequently refused to reconsider the matter.) |
1037 |
| Apr. 13 | From the Minister in China (tel.) Information from the Foreign Minister that Wang Chung-hui is not agreeable to a claims commission and that an official proposal would receive a negative response. |
1038 |
| May 7 (173) | To the Minister in China (tel.) Suggestion that the attention of the Chinese authorities be called to certain points relating to Department’s draft protocol setting up a claims commission (transmitted in despatch No. 1467, February 3, 1930), emphasizing that the work of the proposed commission would be what the Chinese Government apparently desires, namely, the clarification of its position with respect to all foreign obligations. |
1038 |
| May 23 (294) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Conversation with the Foreign Minister, who stated his objections to the proposal of a claims commission but, upon the Minister’s suggestions of ways to meet these objections, asked the Minister to draft an agreement along the lines suggested. Request for the Department’s outline for presentation to the Foreign Minister. |
1039 |
| July 16 | Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Far
Eastern Affairs of a Conversation With the Chinese
Chargé Informal statement read to the Chargé in reply to his recent inquiry, made at the instance of the Nanking Government, with regard to the postponement of payments on intergovernmental debts, particularly certain Boxer indemnity payments. |
1040 |
| Undated | To the Chinese Legation Text of the informal statement read and handed to the Chinese Chargé on July 16 by the Chief of the Division of Far Eastern Affairs. |
1041 |
| July 30 (472) | From the Minister in China (tel.) Reuter’s report from Shanghai: Information that the Minister of Finance published a warning that the bonds issued by Canton rebels and secured on customs revenue would not be recognized in any way by the Government as having claim on national funds. |
1041 |
| Dec. 10 (643) | To the Minister in China Draft of a proposed claims convention between the United States and China (text printed) to be used as a basis for further discussions, and offering proposals to overcome Chinese objections to the former draft. |
1042 |
JAPAN
Trans-Pacific Flight From Japan to the United States of Clyde E. Pangborn and Hugh Herndon, Jr.
| Date and number | Subject | Page |
| 1931 Apr. 2 (50) | To the Ambassador in Japan (tel.) Instructions to obtain the necessary permission for proposed flight over Japanese territory of Clyde E. Pangborn and Hugh Herndon. |
1047 |
| Apr. 13 (51) | From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.) Japanese Government’s desire to know definitely the route of the Pangborn plane before issuing the permit. |
1047 |
| Apr. 21 (65) | To the Ambassador in Japan (tel.) Information that permission is requested for the flight over Japanese territory in case of an emergency. |
1048 |
| June 11 (80) | From the Chargé in Japan (tel.) Information that permission has been granted for emergency landing or flight over Japanese territory if necessary, subject to usual restrictions against flying over fortified zones or carrying firearms or cameras, subsequent flights to be made only at the direction of Japanese officials. |
1048 |
| Aug. 10 (117) | From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.) Report that Herndon and Pangborn landed in Japan without a permit after flying over several fortified zones and taking moving pictures, that they have had a bad week-end with the police but have not been actually arrested. |
1048 |
| Aug. 15 (122) | From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.) Information that Pangborn and Herndon have been fined 2,050 yen each or 205 days in prison. |
1049 |
| Aug. 15 (123) | From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.) Japanese confiscation of camera and films belonging to Pangborn and Herndon. |
1049 |
| Aug. 15 (135) | To the Ambassador in Japan (tel.) Inquiry as to whether the question of Herndon and Pangborn’s flying their plane from Japan has been settled, and if not, instructions to urge upon authorities that they permit the flight in the interest of good will. |
1049 |
| Aug. 16 (124) | From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.) Information that the question of Herndon and Pangborn’s permit to fly the Pacific has not been raised, but that the Embassy will try to have permission for the flight by the time necessary alterations to the plane are completed. |
1049 |
| Aug. 23 (126) | From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.) Report that the Embassy has applied for a permit for the Herndon-Pangborn flight to depart, that the Foreign Minister himself is now handling the matter, and that the customs require a guaranty in the nature of a bond for payment of duty before releasing the plane. |
1050 |
| Aug. 25 | Memorandum by Mr. Ransford S. Miller of the Division
of Far Eastern Affairs of a Conversation With the Japanese Counselor
of Embassy Discussion of the Pangborn-Herndon case and of possible helpful action by the Japanese Embassy, especially in view of the pending decision concerning permission for the resumption of the flight. |
1050 |
| Aug. 27 | Memorandum by the Under Secretary of
State Visit from the Japanese Ambassador, who was advised by the Under Secretary that some decision should be reached as to Herndon and Pangborn flight; assurance from the Ambassador that he would urge his Government to allow the men to leave. |
1051 |
| Aug. 28 | Memorandum by the Assistant Chief of the Division of
Far Eastern Affairs of a Conversation With the Japanese Counselor of
Embassy Information that the Japanese Ambassador, after his conversation with the Under Secretary on August 27, sent a further telegram to his Government requesting favorable action on the issuance of the permit to Pangborn and Herndon to fly from Japan. |
1052 |
| Aug. 30 (129) | From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.) Information from the Communications Minister that it was necessary to consult the Army and Navy in the Herndon-Pangborn matter and that there were a number of legal points involved but that he would make every effort for early action and believed it would not take long. |
1052 |
| Sept. 1 (140) | From the American Ambassador in Japan to the
Japanese Minister for Foreign Affairs Reference to earlier communications and discussions concerning permission for Pangborn and Herndon to fly from Japan, and further assurance that such permission would produce a favorable impression in the United States. |
1053 |
| Sept. 11 (141) | From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.) Information from the Foreign Office that permission for the Pangborn-Herndon flight would be issued but that the Japanese Government would prefer postponement, possibly until spring, in view of opposition. Request that the Department consult the supporters of the flight and communicate instructions, as the flyers object to postponement. |
1053 |
| Sept. 14 (162) | To the Ambassador in Japan (tel.) Advice that Department has consulted flight supporters, as well as Herndon’s mother, and considers early issuance of the permit desirable. Instructions to present the further note asked by the Foreign Office requesting early issue of the permit. |
1054 |
| Sept. 14 (146) | From the American Ambassador in Japan to the
Japanese Minister for Foreign Affairs Expression of hope for early Issuance of the permit. |
1054 |
| Sept. 15 (145) | From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.) Conversation with Herndon and Pangborn in which Ambassador requested them to make every effort to allay any resentment against Japan incidental to their visit. Information that the Foreign Office reply to the letter of September 14 asks delay until spring, but that the fliers request a permit for immediate flight. |
1055 |
| Sept. 19 (154) | From the Chargé in Japan (tel.) Information that the permit has been granted. |
1055 |
| [Oct. 6?] | From the Japanese Minister for Foreign Affairs
(tel.) Expression of warm congratulations on the success of the Pangborn-Herndon flight. |
1056 |
Admission Into the United States of Japanese Treaty (Trade) Aliens
| Date and number | Subject | Page |
| 1931 June 19 | Memorandum by Mr. Ransford S. Miller of the Division
of Far Eastern Affairs Account of conversations of June 15 and June 17 with Mr. Midzusawa of the Japanese Embassy concerning the difficulties relating to the admission into the United States of Japanese treaty (trade) aliens. |
1056 |
Arrangement Between the United States and Japan Regarding Reciprocal Recognition of Load-Line Certificates Effected by Exchange of Notes Signed February 13, 1931, March 19 and 30, 1931, August 25, 1931, and September 7, 1931
| Date and number | Subject | Page |
| 1931 Feb. 13 46 | From the American Chargé in Japan to the Japanese
Minister for Foreign Affairs Inquiry whether the Japanese Government would be willing to continue the arrangement of 1922 concerning ship load-line certificates pending the coming into force of the international load-line convention of July 5, 1930. |
1059 |
| Mar. 19 30/C1 | From the Japanese Minister for Foreign Affairs to
the American Chargé in Japan Request for assurances that American Chargé’s note of February 13 may be interpreted to mean that, pending the coming into force of the international load-line convention of 1930, the Japanese Government will continue the 1922 arrangement and the U. S. Government will recognize as valid load-line certificates issued by competent Japanese authorities and organizations. |
1060 |
| Mar. 30 (59) | From the American Ambassador in Japan to the
Japanese Minister for Foreign Affairs Advice that the United States is recognizing the load-line marks approved by the Japanese Government. |
1061 |
| Aug. 25 (136) | From the American Ambassador in Japan to the
Japanese Minister for Foreign Affairs Notification that the U. S. Government has confirmed the assurances given in note No. 59 of March 30 and has accepted the proposal of the Japanese Government to continue the present arrangement pertaining to load lines; information that the U. S. Government also has authorized, in particular cases, the marking of load-lines and the issuance of certificates therefor, on American vessels, by certain shipping bureaus, which it is desired be recognized by Japanese authorities. |
1061 |
| Sept. 7 (97/C1) | From the Japanese Minister for Foreign Affairs to
the American Ambassador in Japan Non-objection of the Japanese Government to the recognition of load-line certificates issued to American ships by shipping bureaus in so far only as they are issued under authority granted by the U. S. Government. |
1062 |