793.94/3613: Telegram
The Minister in China (Johnson) to the Secretary of State
[Received January 23—2:40 a.m.]
113. Following from American Consul General at Harbin:
“January 21, 5 p.m. Commissioner of Foreign Affairs informed Chamberlain today that Pinhsien last bombed on 16th and Yuanshu, Wuchang and neighboring places last few days, Japanese aeroplane flew over Harbin yesterday, that Cheng Jun, head of the Pinhsien Government, is determined to hold out against the new regime until the receipt of orders from Nanking and mat local newspapers are so fearful of Japanese influence that they dare not publish reports of bombing.
- 2.
- I have no confirmation of reports of bombing. Japanese have informed me that it is sure that agreement has been reached whereby Pinhsien Government will be dissolved. I believe that it cannot maintain itself.
- 3.
- Ohashi left Harbin by airplane for Mukden yesterday evidently to consult with the Japanese there and later at Kirin.
- 4.
- It is reported that Doihara left Tokyo for Harbin yesterday. His expected arrival here is looked upon with apprehension by the Chinese authorities.”