893.61331/170: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Japan (Grew)
359. Tsingtao’s 212, November 13, 11 a.m., and your despatch 4170 of October 9,21 Universal Leaf Tobacco Company. The head office of the company in this country has informed the Department that the proposal outlined in Tsingtao’s telegram under reference is contrary to its best business judgment and that it has cabled its Shanghai office “recommending that they do not agree because the proposal is not only unreasonable but in our opinion involves illegal restrictions”.
In view of the flagrant nature of this instance of Japanese interference with American business in China, the Department desires that unless you perceive objection you make a further approach to the Foreign Office in regard to the case and that Tsingtao continue to press appropriate Japanese authorities at that port.
Sent to Tokyo via Shanghai. Repeated to Tsingtao.
- Latter not printed.↩