893.00/13764a: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Ambassador in China (Johnson)
80. In view of the important political implications, both internal and international, of the present situation and possible developments at and connected with Sianfu, I desire that you give most solicitous attention to those matters, making full report of outstanding facts in the immediate situation and of related facts; and that you maintain close contact with Chinese officialdom and your diplomatic colleagues, especially the British. There may exist or may arise an opportunity for appropriate use of influence by representatives of foreign governments in the best interest of all concerned. It stands to reason that interference with the normal functioning of the National Government in China, especially if this should involve procedures of unlawful violence among and against high officials and perhaps a domestic military conflict, would impair and impede the progress which China has been making toward establishing political stability and economic well-being, would impose new hardships on the Chinese people, would create a new menace to foreign lives and property and interests in general in China, and would add to the danger of international conflict in the Far East. The situation therefore is of concern to the world. It is, as you know, the policy of this Government not to interfere or intervene in the internal affairs of foreign countries. At the same time, we cannot be indifferent to developments anywhere which jeopardize the interests of nations which are earnestly seeking political and economic stability and which may inject new hazards into an international situation already delicate. We are not prepared at this moment to say or to suggest that any action might appropriately [Page 420] be taken by this or other governments in relation to the situation under reference; but we will be carefully observing developments therein and studying the question of possible helpful action. I therefore desire that you give us the benefit of careful observation and study on your part, consultation with your colleagues, and, promptly and continuously, any comments or suggestions which you may formulate.