Office of the Historian

793.94/15145: Telegram

The Consul at Amoy (MacVitty) to the Secretary of State

Amoy, June 28, 1939—6 p.m.
[Received June 28—2:20 p.m.]

62. With reference to the Japanese notice regarding evacuation of foreigners, and the proposed blockade of Foochow, Captain Stapler, Commandant United States South China Patrol has requested Admiral Mita13 to inform Vice Admiral Kondo in command Japanese Naval Forces South China that: in view non-declaration of war between China and Japan, the contemplated blockade is illegal under international law and the proposed action therefore cannot be accepted. Further, should it become necessary at any time to send naval vessels for the protection of Americans, the responsibility for any damage to United States ships will rest with the Japanese.

MacVitty
  1. Chief of Amoy Liaison Office, Japanese Asia Promotion Board.↩