793.94/4476: Telegram

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

My February 29, 10 a.m. At the request of Admiral Nomura two and a half hour conference held on H. M. S. Kent beginning 1 p.m. February 28th. Japanese representatives Matsuoka and Nomura; Chinese representatives Koo and Gaston Wang; neutrals Admiral Kelly and Commodore Leighton.

The principle of mutual and simultaneous evacuation agreed to. The Japanese, Chinese and neutral Commission to control evacuation and Chinese to police. No agreement made on 20-kilometer demand. The Japanese resisting because it was in their original demands. Chinese likewise resist. They discussed various proposals including the temporary evacuation of Woosung. A proposal to make the radius 10 miles or the Chinese to withdraw to Chenju and the Japanese to the Settlement and then Chinese withdraw to Nanziang until Japanese embark.

Both sides have forwarded proposals to their Governments. Chinese reply expected today. Japanese reply expected on March 2nd when the next meeting will take place and will include military commanders.

Johnson