893.00/13741: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Johnson) to the Secretary of State
[Received November 25—10:40 a.m.]
574. Embassy’s 572, November 24, 4 p.m. The Chinese press reports that counterattacks by the Suiyuan forces threw back the Chahar irregulars along the Wuchuan-Kuyang front, and that 4 regiments of Suiyuan troops captured Pailingmiao yesterday morning with about 300 casualties on their side. There is no independent confirmation of this report, but the news is reported with substantial agreement from various quarters. The report alleges that a large number of Japanese officers were with the Pailingmiao forces, which would accord with the statements made in the interview with Kita as said to have been printed in the New York Times on November 23, but which if true would seem to be at variance with reports emanating from Tokyo that the Japanese Government is not concerned with Suiyuan matter.
The press further reports that the National Government has sent a telegram to Teh Wang directing him to withdraw from Pailingmiao and criticizing him for starting warfare.
By mail to Tokyo.