724.3415/3812: Telegram
The Consul at Geneva (Gilbert) to the Secretary of State
[Received June 9—9 a.m.]
152. Consulate’s 149 June 9, 10 a.m. Yokoyama has just called on me to discuss’ Japan’s reply. He stated that he was fully cognizant of the Italian position vis-à-vis the arms embargo and while he felt that “Japan’s reply” might be agreeable to Italy he regretted that it might not give satisfaction to the United States and Great Britain. He stated that the form and substance of Japan’s reply were solely governed by Japan’s relations with the League.
He then stated that should the United States or Great Britain care to approach Tokyo direct in this matter he felt that a more satisfactory response might be obtained.
[Page 265]It seemed entirely evident to me that he was acting under instructions.
In view of the delicate character of this situation I am not saying anything about this to the British. Please instruct.