394.1115/28a: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Japan (Grew)
476. Further reference your 1177, August 6, 3 p.m.25 In the light of your report that suggestion was made at the Foreign Office that the President Coolidge might possibly be sent into a Japanese port to pick up Americans, we suggest that, unless you perceive objection, you inquire of the Foreign Office whether, if the Coolidge should prove available, the Japanese Government would be willing to give assurances that the Coolidge would be allowed to enter and to leave a Japanese port, with treatment not less favorable, with respect to the ship, the cargo and the passengers than was accorded in American ports to the Tatuta Maru, Heian Maru, and Asama Maru, for the special purpose of taking on board American citizens who desire to depart for the United States. It is important in this connection to note that, although it became necessary for the Tatuta Maru to unload and leave her cargo in the United States, that cargo consisted of goods consigned to and/or already paid for by American purchasers. You should request that for the time being this inquiry be kept confidential. Should the officer or officers of the Foreign Office whom you consult raise a question regarding possible future reciprocal treatment, you should state that it is your understanding that this inquiry relates to the matter of the Coolidge only and that reciprocity in regard thereto is sought on the basis of treatment already accorded to three Japanese vessels.26
You will understand that this inquiry is purely exploratory and tentative and should have the Japanese so understand.
Department has not yet received your reply to its 473, August 6, 6 p.m.,25 but is expecting momentarily to receive it.