793.94/8212: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Johnson) to the Secretary of State
[Received October 2—9:35 a.m.]
472. My 470, September 29, 4 p.m., and my 471, October 2, 3 p.m. Major Imai, Japanese Assistant Military Attaché, in conversation with foreign press correspondents here this morning stated that he was pleased that in this area there had thus far occurred no such unfortunate incidents as have taken place in the “South”. He said that the Japanese authorities had taken measures to prevent such incidents here in the North but that if such an incident should occur it would be “seized upon”. He did not specify what action would be taken by the Japanese but the American correspondents present gained the definite impression that he took it for granted that an “unfortunate incident” would inevitably occur and that stern action would follow.
In view of the provocative and truculent attitude of the Japanese military it will be surprising if an “unfortunate incident” does not occur here in the North or in other regions in China despite all preventive action now being taken by the Chinese authorities arising out of the open rejoicing of the Japanese on the occasion of the anniversary of the Mukden incident, the constant exhibition in Peiping and surrounding regions of Japanese soldiers and military equipment, the forthcoming maneuvers of Japanese forces between here and Tientsin, the continual maneuvers of the Japanese landing forces in Shanghai, all invite such incidents, unaltered by the danger inherent in the enmity toward Chiang Kai Shek of political opponents, intellectuals and radical elements. The situation continues to be definitely and increasingly alarming.
Repeated to Tokyo.