Office of the Historian

893.00/13798: Telegram

The Ambassador in China (Johnson) to the Secretary of State

Nanking, December 19, 1936—11 p.m.
[Received December 19—4:30 p.m.]

365. Department’s 84, December 18, 7 p.m.

1.
I have discussed matter with British Ambassador and we are agreed upon the following.
2.
We have explored possible actions which foreign powers might take in present contingency but are agreed that except for the suggestion of the British Government there is no action which powers could profitably take at this juncture in a situation so peculiarly affecting the stability of the National Government.
3.
British Ambassador sounded Kung yesterday on present proposal and found him disposed to accept it if laid before him.
4.
We are of the opinion that it will be better for all concerned if the Chinese Government is able to find a solution for itself without bringing in the powers. But we believe that the fact that certain powers are prepared to guarantee safe departure of Chang Hsueh Liang, and, if necessary, of Yang Hu Cheng might be of value.
5.
We, therefore, suggest that we be instructed to inform Dr. Kung that the American and British Governments are prepared to take all proper steps to ensure the safe departure from China of Chang Hsueh Liang and if necessary of Yang Hu Cheng. This undertaking would be given also by such of the other three powers approached as may be willing.
6.
With reference to the method of performance we believe that the only feasible plan would be for the Chinese Government to be responsible for safe passage of either or both generals to some place where the powers would be in a position to undertake their safe departure [Page 439] from Chinese soil. The obvious and nearest port would be Tientsin where they would be accommodated on a warship until safe passage could be arranged.
7.
If this suggestion is accepted, would you be willing to proceed in concert with one or more of the powers consulted, or would you act only if all agree. Opportunity may come suddenly and Department’s instructions would be welcome.
8.
British Ambassador is reporting to his Government in the same sense.
9.
It is my opinion that situation, although very serious, is not entirely hopeless yet as negotiations continue behind the scene. I am completely in the dark as to the direction which these negotiations are taking. If the Chinese Government can possibly work its way out without outside help it will, I believe, emerge with increased prestige. If it fails it is difficult to say what will happen. Up to the present it has had an undivided public opinion behind it, but if Chiang should be killed it seems to me inevitable that personal jealousies will once more rend the country.
10.
According to Central News, Ho Ying Chin has ordered bombing to begin again in the morning. No news out of Sian tonight. Soong will probably remind [remain?] overnight at Loyang.

Sent to the Department, repeated to Tokyo, code text by mail to Peiping.

Johnson