893.48/1445: Telegram

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

89. Reference Nanking’s 49, February 6, 5 p.m.53 I feel that outline of statement made by General Amaya should be brought to the [Page 259] attention of the Government at Tokyo in view of the fact that it constitutes a direct threat to American citizens in Nanking by the garrison commander responsible for their protection. Situation at Nanking in regard to safety zone is not of foreigners’ choosing. Work of committee obviously should have ceased on day Japanese troops entered city and hostilities ceased. But it is believed Japanese [it has been] equally object to [equally obvious] that situation in Nanking created by Japanese troops [has?] so terrorized population that it has been afraid to leave zone policed and fed by foreigners. American members of committee, notably George Fitch and Mr. Bates, have written and sent out to Nanking detailed accounts of their experiences during the reign of terror in Nanking. In so far as these accounts have been factual statements these men should not be threatened by the Japanese because of a situation created by themselves.

Sent to Peiping, Nanking and Shanghai. Shanghai please repeat to Tokyo.

Johnson