711.94/800a
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Japan (Grew)
Sir: There is enclosed a copy of a Universal Service report under Tokyo date line March 2287 which appeared in the March 23, 1933, issue of the New York American, the first sentence of which reads as follows:
“American money and United States diplomatic, military and naval advisers dominate the Canton Government in Southeastern China, stronghold of Japan’s bitterest foes, the Tokio and Osaka Asahis, Japanese newspapers, charged today.”
The newspaper report is so utterly fantastic and without basis in fact that it seems inadvisable to dignify it with a formal denial. The Department is, however, sending you a copy of the report in order that you may be in position in your discretion and if and when an appropriate opportunity presents itself to mention informally to appropriate authorities of the Japanese Government how mischievous such reports are to the best interests both of Japan and of the United States.
In this connection it may be mentioned that the Department has noted from time to time the appearance in American newspapers of other reports emanating from Japan similar to the report which is enclosed.
Very truly yours,
- Not reprinted.↩