711.94/2302: Telegram
The Ambassador in Japan (Grew) to the Secretary of State
[Received September 20—10:02 a.m.]
1490. For the Secretary and the Under Secretary only. A completely trustworthy informant stated to me this morning in the strictest confidence that an unsuccessful attempt was made on September 18 to kill the Prime Minister. Prince Konoye was leaving his private residence that morning for his office in his car when four men armed with daggers [and?] short swords sprang at the car. The assailants were overcome and arrested by plainclothes men on duty at the residence. Prince Konoye was not hurt.
Extraordinary precautions are being taken to keep this incident secret. I hope that you will not mention the incident to Admiral Nomura, as it would not be helpful to me if the Japanese Government were made aware that information of the foregoing character comes to my knowledge.