File No. 861.11/967
The Ambassador in Japan (Morris) to the Secretary of State
[Received 5.35 p.m.]
In order that Admiral Knight might have benefit first-hand information he joined me yesterday in talks with my colleagues, the French, the British, and the Russian Ambassadors. Subsequently I had informal conversation with the Minister of Foreign Affairs; from these talks and other reliable information we agreed on the following facts:
[Page 30]As a result of requests from the consuls growing out of the fear that serious disorders, reported to have occurred elsewhere, might be repeated at Vladivostok the British Government and the Japanese Government dispatched war vessels to that port. Neither before nor since their arrival have disorders occurred and the messages received to date report everything perfectly quiet. While deeming additional ships unnecessary the Japanese Government would have no objection whatever to the presence of Brooklyn at Vladivostok. If, however, conditions should hereafter require occupation of Vladivostok and the lines of the Chinese Eastern and Amur Railways, Japan asks that this task be left to her alone and has definitely requested the British Government to agree to this as evidence of confidence of the Allies in her good faith, and is greatly pleased at reported refusal of our Government to a suggested plan joint occupation if conditions should require more drastic action.
Would suggest for consideration of the Department that the Brooklyn be directed to remain at Yokohama to be in readiness to proceed to Vladivostok if conditions there become threatening. This would leave Admiral Knight in a position to act with but little delay, and would also leave the United States free from the appearance of joining in a demonstration to coerce the authorities in control of Vladivostok at a time when no necessity for such coercion is apparent.