762.9411/221: Telegram

The Ambassador in Japan (Grew) to the Secretary of State

175. Embassy’s 130, January 28, 7 p.m. The following is the substance of a telegram which my British colleague sent to London on February 5:

“Official of Ministry of Foreign Affairs has now sent me in strict confidence his translation of what Minister for Foreign Affairs actually said:

[‘]I cannot deny that eventuality might arise when any joint actions might be carried to such an extent and in such a way as to be interpreted as “attack” provided for in article 3 of the pact. Apart from the tripartite agreement, Anglo-American cooperation and its development in the Pacific South Seas and China provide even us alone with a serious problem and we must constantly watch situation from diplomatic and military points of view. Development of the situation might force us to make an important decision in spite of my earnest desire to the contrary.[’]”

Sent to the Department via Shanghai.

Grew