793.94/5764: Telegram
The Minister in China (Johnson) to the Secretary of State
[Received January 18—2:21 a.m.]
60. Reuter from Canton, 17th, reports that Southwest Political Council sent strong telegram to National Government and Kuomin-tang urging positive action to deal with Japanese invasion:
“In case the National Government still does not realize danger of situation thereby bringing disaster to the nation and people the southwest will be compelled to unite the comrades of the various provinces and people of entire country in order to take over the task of resisting Japanese aggression.
When Shanhaikwan incident broke out we telegraphed to you exj pressing our views and urging resistance. Although we have received a reply we have not been informed as to whether Central Government has adopted definite resistance plans. Since fall of Shan-haikwan Japanese troops have been pushing their aggression with increasing vigor hence the nation-wide plan for resistance to invasion.
Dr. W. W. Yen, Dr. Wellington Koo and Mr. Quo Tai-chi also have telegraphically urged armed resistance. Consequently it is clear that both within the country and abroad there is strong determination to deal with Japanese invasion by force. Judging by present League situation resistance is only method to preserve national existence. Now Jehol is threatened with invasion and Peiping and Tientsin are in a critical position. If North China is involved in military operations entire country will be in peril. It is imperative that you quickly declare definite policy of resistance and also rush pay, food and ammunition to troops at the front now facing the enemy in order to allay anxiety of the people and the righteous opinion of the world.”