793.94/6188: Telegram
The Consul General at Tientsin (Lockhart) to the Secretary of State
[Received April 18—6:17 a.m.]
Forces now occupying towns between Lwanchow and Shanhaikwan are described by the Japanese as “anti-Chiang Kai-shek forces.” Intimation [Page 278] being conveyed at Chinwangtao that present movement will not extend westward of Luan River but at the same time it is hinted that everything depends on attitude of the “anti-Chiang Kai-shek forces”. These are believed to be the troops recently described by the Japanese as pro-Manchukuo troops. The territory between the Luan River and the Great Wall is now believed to be entirely free of Chinese regulars.
American military authorities at Chinwangtao report improved conditions there with shops in native city reopened and neighboring villages peaceful. Manchukuo soldiers have strict orders to pay for all purchases and anyone looting is to be executed.