123 Olive, William M.: Telegram
The Consul General at Shanghai (Cabot) to the Secretary of State
[Received July 15—7:29 a. m.]
2789. At meeting of Consular body this morning regarding Olive case, British Consul General stated that he had not had sufficient time consult Ambassador and was therefore not prepared to discuss matter officially. It was finally agreed that I should state case to Consular body and that each would thereafter be able consult his Ambassador [and] Foreign Office if he felt it necessary. Further discussion brought out a certain note of hesitancy among several consular officers despite optimism expressed to me by Brazilian Consul who has been particularly active. (I have naturally been careful to avoid any initiative with colleagues as instructed by Dept.) Final decision was that consular body should await result of our protest regarding Olive case and would then decide what next step to take if any. In meantime, Consuls would have opportunity consult respective authorities.
Repeated Nanking 1571.