793.94/8691: Telegram

The Counselor of Embassy in China ( Peck ) to the Secretary of State

257. Embassy’s July 9, 11 a.m.

1.
Japanese Embassy spokesman here has told foreign newspaper correspondents here that (1) a truce was arranged at 5 o’clock this morning providing, as a preliminary measure, for the withdrawal of both Chinese and Japanese forces; (2) withdrawal by both sides began but later Chinese reopened fire upon the retiring Japanese troops; (3) fighting ceased again at 7 a.m.; (4) the Japanese Embassy is still optimistic that some machinery for a settlement can be set up in the course of today.
2.
The Foreign Office official cited in our telegram under reference just telephoned that the Japanese have not occupied Lukouchiao which he states is still occupied by Chinese troops, and that upon the appearance of Chinese reenforcements in the vicinity this morning the Japanese troops withdrew several kilometres.
3.
Sent to the Department, Peiping, Tokyo, by courier to Shanghai.
Peck