123 C 353/204: Telegram
The Minister in China (Johnson) to the Secretary of State
[Received January 5—7:54 a.m.]
22. Legation’s 18, January 5, 3 p.m. 1. Following from Mukden:
“January 4, 5 p.m. Referring to my telegrams regarding the Chamberlain case, the Japanese Consulate General sent a representative [Page 732] to this office this morning officially and informed it that the only substantial difference between Chamberlain’s statement and that of the offenders is that Chamberlain tried to pull one man into the car.
In view of the serious and unprovoked character of outrage, it is my opinion that the chief offender, a civilian, deserves more serious punishment than he has had; that the soldiers involved should be punished for participating in the attack. The Department’s instructions in regard to an acceptable settlement are requested. Pending receipt of further instructions the Major’s call will not be received.”
Legation is making further inquiry of Chamberlain concerning details of incident and will comment later in regard to Myers’ recommendation as expressed above.