793.94/9061: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Johnson) to the Secretary of State
[Received July 29—10:41 a.m.]
342. My 341, July 29, 6 p.m. I have just seen Minister of Foreign Affairs who told me that although the situation is very grave Central Government has not yet made any decision in regard to breaking off relations with Japan. He stated that such a decision would be made only as a last resort and probably in connection with some major clash, as Government was very anxious not to take any initiative in the matter and on the contrary wished to preserve as long as possible any channel through which negotiations might be conducted. Minister of Foreign Affairs still views situation as most critical.
Sent to Tokyo, Peiping, Shanghai.