Foreign Relations of the United States, Diplomatic Papers, 1938, The Far East, Volume III

893.0146/618

The Department of State to the British Embassy

[Washington,] January 18, 1938.

The American Government has for some time had in contemplation possible withdrawal from Shanghai of the regiment of marines sent to Shanghai as reenforcements last fall. The American Government has already informed the British Government of this. The American Government perceives no reason why the contemplated withdrawal by the British Government of one battalion of the British landed armed force, at about the end of January, should not be carried out. The withdrawal of the American regiment would probably take place before the middle of February. According to our understanding, if and when these contemplated withdrawals are effected, there would remain of the British force at Shanghai two battalions; and there would remain of the American force one regiment.