793.94/2811: Telegram
The Chargé in France (Shaw) to the Secretary of State
[Received November 22—3 p.m.]
778. From Ambassador Dawes: Sze has outlined the condition of Chinese public sentiment which shortly may eventuate in his Government’s sending positive instructions to prepare for the League a further statement of attitude which will break up the current negotiations. In order to prevent a too precipitate action of this sort, Sze may be obliged to issue some public statement with emphasis on China’s not going along with the program of the League until satisfied with the evacuation conditions. The League program, involving a discussion at present of the details of the commission with no concurrent provision for Japanese evacuation, Sze feels, has created an unjustified public anticipation of a satisfactory solution. He thinks this compels him to make [Page 533] a statement here such as will clearly show his Government that he has not in any way changed his position.
Sze thinks it is necessary for him to take this action to enable him to avoid an immediate impasse with the League, giving Japan thus a chance to commence the voluntary troop withdrawal of which you were informed by Debuchi. It should be understood that in the general interest China is refraining for the moment from invoking all its remedies and rights under the Covenant, particularly article X, but China is beginning to feel that the League’s present actions may drive it into a corner and force it to act. At this juncture Sze is unable even to discuss the matter of the commission with the League of Nations. [Dawes.]