393.1115/3412: Telegram
The Consul General at Shanghai (Lockhart) to the Secretary of State
[Received July 18—1:15 p.m.]
1003. My 981, July 12, 4 p.m.23 I have received this afternoon a letter from the Japanese Consul General in which the following statement is made with regard to the protection of American nationals at Kiukiang, Kuling and Nanchang:
“I have the honour to transmit to you herewith the advice given by our military authorities concerning the matter, which goes as follows:
With regard to the respect for and protection of the lives and property of third power nationals in the areas of actual fighting, and aerial bombardments in certain areas, the Japanese authorities concerned made communication to the third powers concerned on June 20, and July 10, respectively.
It is highly appreciated that the American authorities have shown an attitude of cooperation in the matter and it is hoped that that attitude will be continued in order to preclude any unpleasant mishaps which might otherwise happen unexpectedly.
As the most intensive military operations will most probably take place in such places at Kiukiang, Kuling and Nanchang, third power nationals staying in these places might not be entirely free from being exposed to extreme danger despite every possible precaution which shall be taken by the Japanese forces. Accordingly, it is requested once again that the American nationals in and around Kiukiang and Kuling take shelter in Amercan warships near-by and those in and around Nanchang evacuate to some safer places.
Everything which is vested with enemy character can not evade being attacked by the Japanese forces. Especially, in view of the fact that Chinese forces tend to approach or make use of properties be [Page 408] longing to third powers for the purpose of entangling third powers, it is hoped that special consideration will be paid to prevent such actions by the Chinese.
In case of American authorities desire to bring American nationals into the area under the control of Japanese Army in an appropriate way—for example by carrying in warships—our military authorities will not fail to afford adequate protection for them.”
Sent to Hankow, repeated to Department and Tokyo.
- Not printed.↩