Foreign Relations of the United States Diplomatic Papers, 1939, The Far East, Volume III

711.94/1299: Telegram

The Chargé in Japan ( Dooman ) to the Secretary of State

Tokyo , September 22, 1939—5 p.m.
[Received September 22—10:25 a.m.]

489. Our 484, September 19, 3 p.m.⁹¹

1. We have had several conversations with members of the Foreign Office apropos of the spate of articles appearing recently in the vernacular press concerning American-Japanese relations. While we have been unable to establish definitely the original inspiration of these articles, it is now apparent the Foreign Office has at least actively participated. In our conversations it developed that individuals in the Foreign Office hold the view that although the public in Japan has been kept fully informed of the definitely unfavorable popular opinion in the United States it is now necessary to prepare the Japanese people against the American Government giving effect to such opinion when the commercial treaty expires by legislation directed specifically against Japan. Therefore, every opportunity is to be taken we understand to emphasize the possibility of a serious worsening in relations with the United States.

2. The articles now appearing are not inflammatory but they are on the whole pessimistic in tone, being reflective of Foreign Office and big business opinion.

Repeated to Shanghai. Shanghai please repeat to Peiping, Chungking.

Dooman

91. Not printed.