124.932/574: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in China (Johnson)
Washington, February 9, 1938—7
p.m.
61. Nanking’s 51, February 7, 8 p.m., and your 94, February 8, 1 p.m.56
- 1.
- Department feels that, in the light of all factors in the situation known to it, the proposal that regrets be expressed by Major General Harada to the American Consul General at Shanghai should be accepted. The Department assumes, of course, that expression of regret will cover expressly both the violation of Embassy property and the desecration of the American flag and will carry some form of assurance against repetition.
- 2.
- Department approves of no further compensation being asked for the three automobiles taken by the Japanese and later returned to the Embassy. With respect to the cars belonging to Jenkins, Aldridge and Lafoon mentioned in your 16, January 8, 1 p.m., Department assumes Nanking is being guided by the Department’s 12, January 11, 4 p.m.57
- 3.
- The Department assumes that a settlement in regard to Embassy property and property of Embassy personnel will include compensation for damages to Jenkins’ property mentioned in your 38, January 18, 6 p.m.58 Nanking should report the outcome of action taken in pursuance of Department’s 31, January 22, 2 p.m.58
Please instruct Nanking and Shanghai accordingly.
Hull