793.94/14201: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Johnson) to the Secretary of State
[Received 1:36 p.m.]
514. Department’s 4, October 24, 7 p.m., to Hong Kong. It is my belief that following factors account for rapidity of Japanese invasion of Kwangtung. Excellent weather conditions which at this time of year prevail at Bias Bay. Thus road and dry conditions of rice fields making use of mechanized equipment possible. Japanese landed in force well prepared accomplishing military surprise; Chinese who were on inside of circle were apparently uncertain as to point where blow would be delivered. Best Cantonese troops and leaders were in Yangtze Valley. Local jealousy hampered Cantonese leaders in preparing defense. Japanese had complete command of air and were able to bomb also machine gun roads over which Chinese forces were compelled to advance to meet invasion. Mechanized equipment unhampered got ahead of infantry. I have not heard any evidence to convince me of treachery on large scale sufficient to account for what has happened. I believe stupidity and ineptitude of Chinese leadership chiefly responsible.