893.102S/1889: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Consul General at Shanghai (Gauss)
Washington, September 21, 1939—6
p.m.
360. Department’s 351, September 17, 10 p.m., and your 833, September 19, 3 p.m., in regard to possible discussions through specially appointed representatives with the Japanese on the subject of revision of the Shanghai defense plan and the question of the extra-Settlement roads.
- 1.
- The attitude of the Embassy at Tokyo in regard to the procedure contemplated by the Department is substantially the same as yours, and the Department has decided for the present to take no action toward proposing such procedure.
- 2.
- With reference to your 819, September 14, 5 p.m. in regard to the question of the revision of the Shanghai defense plan, it seems probable that in the consideration there of this matter there may be raised important questions of a diplomatic as well as of a military character, and the Department is confident that you are keeping in close touch with Admiral Hart and will keep the Department promptly and fully informed in regard to developments.
- 3.
- Please inform Admiral Hart in strict confidence of the substance of this telegram.
Sent to Shanghai only. Please repeat to Tokyo.
Hull