711.94/1502a: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Japan (Grew)
144. The Department’s telegram 142, May 4, 2 p.m., was sent to you after consultation with and at the desire of the President.
2. We understand that the President approved Mr. Sayre’s making a visit to Japan and while there conferring with you and, if he so desired, making courtesy calls on Japanese officials. There was no thought here that Sayre should or would embark upon discussion with Japanese officials of any subject of high policy. We are at a loss to understand why he did so and thus became involved in discussions which are appropriate only to our diplomatic representation. We regard as especially unfortunate the development of approach and necessary rejection which took place in the final conversation.