893.05/189: Telegram
The Chargé in China (Perkins) to the Secretary of State
Peiping, November 25, 1929—10
p.m.
[Received 10:05 p.m.]
[Received 10:05 p.m.]
1041. Legation’s 1037, November 24, 1 p.m.
- 1.
- At today’s meeting I informed the interested Heads of Legations of the Department’s views as set forth in the Department’s 382, November 21, 2 p.m. Japanese Chargé d’Affaires stated that his Government intended to press the Chinese in regard to Japanese participation. The Japanese Government, however, appreciative of the sympathetic attitude of the other interested powers but fearing that some time might elapse before an adjustment could be made, did not wish to be a hindrance to the negotiations. Should therefore the Chinese Government persist in its present attitude, the Japanese Government desired to interpose no objection to the negotiations being undertaken by the American, British, Dutch and French delegates.
- 2.
- Other Heads of Legation accordingly agreed that this course should be followed but were of the opinion that a reply should first be awaited to the note sent Minister for Foreign Affairs on November 22nd. (Legation’s 1027 [1037], November 24, 1 p.m., paragraph 2.)
- It was understood that in case the Japanese were able at any time to reach an agreement with regard to their participation, they would, then, as a precaution, enter the negotiations.
- 3.
- It was also suggested and agreed to in principle that should the Chinese persist in refusing to permit Japanese participation, it would be both fitting and advisable to despatch a further note of protest of a tenor similar to the former notes, while at the same time commencing negotiations without the presence of the Japanese delegates. I purpose, therefore, unless the Department disapproves, to concur in the despatch of such a note if there be occasion therefor.
- 4.
- Bucknell and Jacobs are being informed of the substance of the foregoing.
Perkins