493.11/1799a: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Minister in China (Johnson)
Washington, November 3, 1933—5
p.m.
363. Your 806, October 23, 11 a.m. and Department’s 357, October 26, 9 p.m.26 If and when the Minister proceeds to Nanking, the Department desires that there be included for discussion with the appropriate authorities or persons certain subjects as follows:
- 1.
- Ekvall Case:27 The Department desires that the Minister discuss this case with Peck and, after a careful review of all the factors involved, report their joint views and recommendations in regard to whether we should (a) continue to press for payment of an exemplary indemnity or (b) inform the Chinese Government that we withdraw this demand in view of the fact that the father of Ekvall does not desire to receive an indemnity.
- 2.
- Claims Commission: With reference to Department’s 219, June 24, 3 p.m.,28 and previous, Department also desires that Minister investigate and report to the Department in regard to the advisability and expediency of renewing at this time representations to the Chinese Government in regard to the proposed Sino-American claims commission. Department realizes that situation is complicated by resignation of Soong but desires that its proposal be not lost sight of.
- 3.
- Claims against Chinese Railways: With reference to Department’s 360, October 28, 3 p.m.,28 and previous, Department desires that Minister in consultation with Peck endeavor to ascertain from concerned American railway materials creditors, particularly Vilhelm Meyer,29 and possibly Ministry of Railways, the difficulties which have so far prevented the conclusion of a satisfactory agreement; and, in his discretion, attempt to effect an accord.30
- 4.
- Liquid fuel situation at Canton: As British and Dutch interests are involved, and also, according to the Department’s understanding, French interests in regard to similar restrictions against Hongay cement, the Department desires that the Minister discuss this situation with the British, Dutch and French Ministers in order to obtain their views for possible coordination of action by all and that, upon his arrival at Nanking, he make continual efforts to impress upon the Chinese authorities the importance of taking steps to compel the Canton authorities to observe the treaty rights which are being violated.
Hull