List of Papers
(Unless otherwise specified, the correspondence is from or to officials in the Department of State.)
THE FAR EASTERN CRISIS: OCCUPATION OF MANCHURIA BY JAPAN AND STATEMENT OF POLICY BY THE UNITED STATES
Chapter I: January 1–28. 1932
| Date and number | Subject | Page |
| 1932 Jan. 2 |
Memorandum by the Secretary of State
Advice to French Ambassador of intended U. S. action in regard to Manchurian situation, and desire to know French viewpoint. |
1 |
| Jan. 3 (9) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Military Attaché’s report that Chinese troops and Provincial Government have left Chinchow. |
3 |
| Jan. 4 (10) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Mukden, January 3: Information that Japanese troops have occupied Chinhsien. |
3 |
| Jan. 5 (16) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Report of informal conversation between the Consul General at Nanking and Eugene Chen, new Foreign Minister, regarding possibility of China’s opening discussions with Japan on Manchurian situation. |
3 |
| Jan. 5 |
Memorandum by the Secretary of
State
Conversation with French Ambassador regarding basis of possible new démarche to Japanese Government because of new developments in Manchuria; explanation that American note to both China and Japan, already in preparation, will probably be based on Nine-Power Treaty and Kellogg-Briand Pact. |
4 |
| Jan. 5 |
Memorandum by the Secretary of State
Advice to British Ambassador of U. S. proposed note to Chinese and Japanese Governments. |
5 |
| Jan. 6 |
Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State of a
Conversation With the Italian Ambassador
Italian desire to be included in any concerted action taken under the Nine-Power Treaty in regard to Manchuria. |
6 |
| Jan. 7 |
From the Consul General at Tientsin
(tel.)
Occupation of Shanhaikwan by Japanese troops. |
7 |
| Jan. 7 (33) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Harbin, January 6: Report that General Ma is now at Sungpuchen to consult with General Chang Ching-hui. |
7 |
| Jan. 7 (2) |
To the Consul General at Nanking
(tel.)
Note to be delivered to the Foreign Office (text printed), advising of U. S. Government’s policy of nonrecognition of any agreement between China and Japan which may impair U. S. treaty rights in China, or violate the open-door policy or the terms of the Kellogg-Briand Pact. (Footnote: The same, mutatis mutandis, to the Ambassador in Japan; text of note repeated to the Consul at Geneva for transmittal to the Secretary General of the League of Nations.) |
7 |
| Jan. 7 |
Memorandum by the Secretary of State
Advice to Japanese Ambassador of contents of identic note of January 7 to Chinese and Japanese Governments; intention to notify other parties to the Nine-Power Treaty, and the press, of contents of note. |
8 |
| Jan. 7 |
Memorandum by the Secretary of
State
Repetition to Chinese Minister of information given Japanese Ambassador (supra). Presentation by Chinese Minister of an extract from his instructions (infra), and Secretary’s comment that these instructions have now been met in part by action regarding identic note. |
9 |
| Undated |
From the Chinese Minister for Foreign Affairs at
Nanking to the Chinese Minister
Instructions to urge U. S. action for preservation of peace in the Far East. |
10 |
| Jan. 7 |
Memorandum by the Secretary of
State
Notification to French Chargé of dispatch of identic note to to China and Japan, and expression of hope for similar action by France. (Footnote: Information that similar conversations were held with representatives of Belgium, Great Britain, Italy, the Netherlands, and Portugal.) |
10 |
| Jan. 7 (425) |
From the Consul General at Mukden
Résumé of the railway situation in Manchuria as affected by the Japanese occupation. |
11 |
| Jan. 8 (4) |
From the Consul General at Nanking
(tel.)
Delivery to Foreign Minister of identic note of January 7; Chinese Government’s intention to break off diplomatic relations with Japan, and to appeal to the League to invoke economic sanctions against Japan under article 16 of the League Covenant. |
14 |
| Jan. 8 (3) |
From the Ambassador in Japan
(tel.)
Conversation with Prime Minister regarding press report of extension of Japanese occupation to Mongolia. |
15 |
| Jan. 8 (5) |
From the Consul General at Nanking
(tel.)
Chinese Government’s decision, after studying U. S. note of January 7, to hold in abeyance intended action against Japan; inquiry as to whether U. S. Government had in mind Nine-Power Treaty as basis of note, as well as Kellogg-Briand Pact, and as to U. S. attitude toward convening of a conference of the signatories of the treaty. |
16 |
| Jan. 8 (40) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Harbin, January 7: Report of proposed meeting of Chinese heads of Japanese-sponsored provincial governments of Heilungkiang, Kirin, and Fengtien Provinces to declare union of the three provinces and agree on a head official for Manchuria. |
16 |
| Jan. 8 (3) |
To the Consul General at Nanking
(tel.)
Advice that U. S. note of January 7 includes provisions of all treaties under which United States has rights in Manchuria; belief that there is no immediate occasion for calling a conference of treaty signatories. |
17 |
| Jan. 8 |
Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Far
Eastern Affairs
Conversation with Chinese Minister regarding Chinese Government’s interest in a conference under the Nine-Power Treaty, and disinclination of U. S. Government to take such action at present. |
18 |
| Jan. 9 (7) |
From the Chargé in Great Britain
(tel.)
Foreign Office press communiqué indicating that British Government does not intend to address formal note to Japanese Government on lines of American note, but has requested confirmation of Japanese assurances of December 28, 1931, that Japan will uphold open-door policy in Manchuria. |
19 |
| Jan. 11 (48) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Harbin, January 9: Announcement by General Chang Ching-hui of his assumption of control of all military and civil affairs in Heilungkiang Province, with title of provincial governor. |
19 |
| Jan. 11 (49) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Consul General at Nanking, January 9: Conversation with Foreign Minister regarding difficult situation of National Government in face of Japanese occupation. |
20 |
| Jan. 11 (51) |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Conversation with Wellington Koo regarding Chinese interest in a conference under Nine-Power Treaty, and his belief that Russia should necessarily be included in such a conference. |
21 |
| Jan. 11 (21) |
From the Ambassador in France (tel.)
French Government’s nonintention to send note to China and Japan similar to U. S. note of January 7. |
21 |
| Jan. 11 |
From the British Embassy
Aide-mémoire explaining British action in merely requesting Japanese assurances regarding their attitude toward the open-door policy in Manchuria, rather than sending note in the sense of the American note of January 7. |
22 |
| Jan. 12 (166) |
From the Netherlands Legation
Note verbale advising that Netherlands Government considers it inexpedient to take action similar to U. S. Government’s note of January 7. |
23 |
| Jan. 13 (61) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Harbin, January 11: Reported bombing of Pinhsien by Japanese planes and Japanese military mission’s advice that it had received no report of such bombing; January 12: report of bombing of Yushu and Wutaitzu village. |
24 |
| Jan. 13 (64) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Nanking: Efforts of Chinese Government to cope with double task of protecting country from the Japanese invasion and of maintaining its own existence. |
25 |
| Jan. 13 (65) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Report on interests of China, Russia, and Japan in Manchuria. |
26 |
| Jan. 13 (10) |
From the Consul General at Nanking
(tel.)
Text of Foreign Office note, dated January 12, acknowledging U. S. note of January 7, and recounting Japanese violation of, and Chinese adherence to, treaties and agreements referred to in U. S. note. |
27 |
| Jan. 14 (14) |
From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Report of formal constitution of League Commission on Manchuria. |
30 |
| Jan. 14 (11) |
From the Consul General at Nanking
(tel.)
Foreign Minister’s intention to publish official denial of news report that U. S. note of January 7 had interrupted Chinese efforts to open negotiations with Japan regarding Manchuria. |
30 |
| Jan. 15 |
From the Belgian Embassy
Aide-mémoire taking cognizance of U. S. note of January 7 to China and Japan, and advising of Belgian cooperation with League action on question. |
31 |
| Jan. 17 (82) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Mukden, January 16: Occupation of Tungliao by Japanese troops. |
31 |
| Jan. 18 (18) |
From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Letter of January 16 (text printed) from the Acting Secretary General of the League, advising of General Frank R. McCoy’s appointment on League Commission on Manchuria; request for instructions on certain points involved in General McCoy’s participation on Commission. |
32 |
| Jan. 18 (428) |
From the Consul General at Mukden
Report on alleged atrocities committed by the Japanese Army during recent engagements in western Liaoning Province. |
33 |
| Jan. 19 (94) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Japanese news agency report regarding preparations for the establishment of a new state in Manchuria, combining Fengtien, Kirin, Heilungkiang, and possibly Jehol, in a republic. |
34 |
| Jan. 19 |
From the French Embassy
Agreement with principles of U. S. identic note of January 7, and advice that parallel action was taken by M. Briand, as President of the League Council, on January 14, by notification to the Council members, including China and Japan, of the constitution of the Commission of Inquiry on Manchuria. |
35 |
| Jan. 19 |
Memorandum by the Consul General at Nanking of a
Conversation With the Chinese Minister for Foreign
Affairs
Discussion regarding what steps the Chinese Government might take against Japan. |
36 |
| Jan. 20 (96) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Consul General at Nanking: Interview with Foreign Minister regarding desire of certain members of present Government for an active policy against Japan, including invoking article 16 of the League Covenant, requesting a conference of Nine-Power Treaty signatories, and rupture of diplomatic relations with Japan, although such action has not yet been definitely decided on. |
37 |
| Jan. 20 (97) |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Conversation with Wellington Koo regarding wisdom of the Chinese undertaking direct negotiations with the Japanese. |
38 |
| Jan. 20 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Report of several clashes between Chinese and Japanese in and near the International Settlement. |
39 |
| Jan. 20 |
Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Far
Eastern Affairs
Advice to Chinese Chargé that a copy of U. S. note of January 7 to China and Japan had been communicated to the League Council. |
39 |
| Jan. 20 (18) |
To the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
General McCoy’s acceptance of invitation to serve on League Commission, and other information requested in Consul’s telegram No. 18, January 18. |
40 |
| Jan. 21 (23) |
From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Request for instructions as to whether to continue as American representative on the League Council in its consideration of the Sino-Japanese question. |
41 |
| Jan. 21 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Report of Japanese mass meeting at which local Japanese Consul General was denounced for his failure to obtain satisfaction in various local incidents. |
41 |
| Jan. 21 (106) |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Information that a Japanese advance into Jehol is unlikely at present. |
42 |
| Jan. 21 (19) |
To the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Instructions to submit, unofficially, to the Chairman of the Manchurian Commission General McCoy’s views concerning importance of providing an adequate personal staff for each Commissioner. |
42 |
| Jan. 21 (20) |
To the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Instructions for maintaining unofficial liaison with League Council. |
43 |
| Jan. 21 |
Memorandum by the Economic Adviser, Department of
State
Conversation with American representative of the South Manchuria Railway Company regarding the disposition of the Chinese railways in Manchuria. |
43 |
| Jan. 22 (24) |
From the Consul at Geneva
(tel.)
Information regarding attendance at meeting of Manchurian Commission, on behalf of General McCoy. |
44 |
| Jan. 22 (107) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Mukden: Report of preparations at Tsitsihar for increase in Japanese forces ostensibly to clear out bandits. |
45 |
| Jan. 22 (109) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Harbin, January 15: Report on Japanese activities in northern Manchuria against alleged Russian intrigue. |
45 |
| Jan. 22 (21) |
From the Ambassador in Japan
(tel.)
Dispatch of Japanese vessels to Shanghai; Foreign Office oral assurance that Japanese Consul General has been instructed to take up all questions with Chinese local authorities and Municipal Council. |
46 |
| Jan. 22 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Advice to Chairman of Shanghai Municipal Council that the Japanese Consul, rather than the Japanese Admiral, should be consulted regarding arrangements to preserve order at Japanese mass meeting on January 23. |
47 |
| Jan. 22 |
Memorandum by the Secretary of
State
Message from Foreign Minister Grandi, presented by the Italian Ambassador, regarding Italian action to show accord with U. S. note to China and Japan. |
48 |
| Jan. 23 (26) |
From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Summary of chief points taken up in meeting of the Manchurian Commission on January 21, and certain details for information of General McCoy. |
48 |
| Jan. 23 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Report of recommendation by Japanese Admiral and Japanese Consul General to their nationals that proposed mass meeting be abandoned. |
53 |
| Jan. 23 (113) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Harbin, January 21: Unconfirmed reports of Japanese bombings in Kirin Province; Japanese expectation that Chinese Provincial Government at Pinhsien will be dissolved. |
54 |
| Jan. 23 (116) |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Indication that Japanese advance against Jehol has been limited to occupation of Peipiao through an understanding brought about by Tang Yu-lin in regard to bandit control. |
54 |
| Jan. 24 (14) |
From the Consul General at Nanking
(tel.)
Summary of discussions with Foreign Minister and between French Minister and leaders of Chinese Government regarding threats imperiling existence of Nationalist Government from internal problems and Japanese aggression; indication that China wishes the powers to arrange for opening of negotiations with Japan. |
55 |
| Jan. 25 (27) |
From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Discussion with Chinese representative as to probable course of Chinese action at Council meeting. |
57 |
| Jan. 25 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Terms of demands presented to Mayor of International Settlement by Japanese Consul General in connection with assault on Japanese monks; Mayor’s feeling that first three could be satisfactorily settled, but that fourth, requiring suppression of anti-Japanese activities and organizations, would be difficult. |
58 |
| Jan. 25 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Report by local representative of Radio Corporation of America of Japanese intention to occupy radio transmitting station at Chenju, near Shanghai, and his request that steps be taken to prevent such action. |
59 |
| Jan. 25 (121) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Harbin: Report that Heilungkiang and Kirin Provinces are now under the control of the Japanese Army, acting through Chinese officials selected by it. |
59 |
| Jan. 25 (122) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Nanking, January 24: Request for dispatch of naval vessels to Nanking, Wuhu, and Chinkiang for possible evacuation of American citizens. |
60 |
| Jan. 25 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Decision at meeting of Shanghai Municipal Council that state of emergency does not exist at present. |
60 |
| Jan. 25 (15) |
From the Consul General at Nanking
(tel.)
Decision of Chinese Government to adopt conciliatory attitude in meeting Japanese demands in Shanghai incidents. |
60 |
| Jan. 25 |
Memorandum by the Secretary of State of a
Conversation With the British Ambassador
Discussion of serious situation at Shanghai resulting from Japanese attempts to combat Chinese boycott; also U. S. proposals for action to show its concern and that of other nations over situation. |
61 |
| Jan. 25 |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Approval of action reported in telegram of January 22. |
64 |
| Jan. 25 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Resignation of Eugene Chen, Foreign Minister, and Sun Fo, President of Executive Yuan, in protest against Government’s passive policy; assumption of control by Chiang Kai-shek and Wang Ching-wei. |
64 |
| Jan. 25 (24) |
To the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Query by Chinese Chargé regarding American representation on League Council and hope that Chinese Minister will not raise the question. (Footnote: Information in telegram No. 33, January 26, from Geneva, that Chinese Minister gave oral assurances that he would not raise the question.) |
65 |
| Jan. 25 (124) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Comments on report of Consul General at Nanking, in telegram No. 14, of January 24, to Department; impression that Chinese are attempting to over-emphasize Shanghai incident in hope of foreign support. |
65 |
| Jan. 25 (26) |
To the Minister in China
(tel.)
Instructions to discuss with British colleague situation in Shanghai, particularly the principle of maintaining control of law and order in the International Settlement in the hands of the Municipal Council and its police force, and to ascertain whether his Government would be willing to send simultaneous protests to powers disregarding these principles. |
66 |
| Jan. 26 (35) |
From the Consul at Geneva
(tel.)
Possibility of change in Chinese policy involving a more definite invocation of rights under League Covenant and treaties; request for instructions as to U. S. position in event of invocation of Nine-Power Treaty. |
68 |
| Jan. 26 |
Memorandum by the Assistant Chief of the Division of
Far Eastern Affairs
Information from Japanese Embassy that reports from Shanghai indicate an improvement in conditions there. |
70 |
| Jan. 27 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Interview with Japanese Consul General, who agreed to notify American Consul General and Municipal Council of Chinese reply to Japanese demands and to give advance notice of any military action to be taken. |
70 |
| Jan. 27 (40) |
From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Separate and private interviews by League committee with Chinese and Japanese representatives to express to them Council’s alarm over Shanghai situation, and to discuss other aspects of the dispute; possible program of action by Council. |
71 |
| Jan. 27 (41) |
From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Private expression of leading League delegates of their hope for possible means of common action between League and United States on essential points in respect to Manchurian situation. |
73 |
| Jan. 27 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Comments on question of adequacy of naval forces to protect American nationals in event of declaration of a state of emergency; also on question of military leadership, the senior military officer at present being Japanese. |
73 |
| Jan. 27 (131) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Opinion that Japan should be called upon to control her citizens within the International Settlement, thus fulfilling her obligations there. |
75 |
| Jan. 27 (43) |
From the Consul at Geneva
(tel.)
Development of Chinese position with possible alternatives of invocation of articles 15 and 16 of the Covenant or preparation for invocation of Nine-Power Treaty. |
76 |
| Jan. 27 (44) |
From the Consul at Geneva
(tel.)
Arrangement by Secretary-General of League to inform Consul concerning private meetings of Council through Mr. Arthur Sweetser, U. S. member of the Information Service of the League of Nations. |
77 |
| Jan. 27 (132) |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Appointment of General Chen Ming-shu as Foreign Minister to succeed Mr. Eugene Chen. |
77 |
| Jan. 27 (25) |
From the Ambassador in Japan
(tel.)
Dispatch of Japanese destroyer squadron to Shanghai in addition to forces reported in telegram No. 21, January 22. |
77 |
| Jan. 27 (16) |
From the Consul General at Nanking
(tel.)
Conversation with Wang Ching-wei, who urged intervention by foreign powers or mediation in negotiations between China and Japan. |
78 |
| Jan. 27 |
From the Consul General at Harbin
(tel.)
Information that Japanese Consul General has requested that Japanese troops be sent from Changchun to Harbin; belief that situation does not justify such action and that retiring Chinese troops may attempt to loot foreign property. |
79 |
| Jan. 27 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Meeting of Municipal Council to consider Japanese request for declaration of state of emergency. |
79 |
| Jan. 27 (135) |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Inability, because of absence of British representatives, to discuss Shanghai situation as requested in Department’s telegram No. 26, January 25. |
80 |
| Jan. 27 (17) |
From the Consul General at Nanking
(tel.)
Report that Japanese Consul General at Shanghai has demanded a favorable reply to the Japanese demands by midnight, January 28; opinion that Chinese will deliver a favorable reply before that time. |
80 |
| Jan. 27 |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Instructions to advise Japanese Consul General orally of Department’s concern over possible injury to American interests, particularly radio communications, from reported contemplated action of Japanese military near International Settlement. |
81 |
| Jan. 27 (29) |
To the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Reiteration, in response to telegram No. 35, January 20, of Department’s views that there is no immediate occasion for calling of a conference under the Nine-Power Treaty. |
81 |
| Jan. 28 (47) |
From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Report to League Council, by Japanese representative, of Foreign Minister’s statement before Japanese Parliament that Japan has no territorial aims in Manchuria and supports the open-door principle and all treaties relating to that territory. |
82 |
| Jan. 28 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Probability that a state of emergency will be declared by the Municipal Council. |
82 |
| Jan. 28 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Information that Mayor has been given until 6 o’clock, January 28, to answer satisfactorily Japanese demands. |
83 |
| Jan. 28 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Japanese inquiry regarding policing by Settlement police of Japanese-occupied territory; information that Mayor’s reply will be delivered to Japanese today and will be an unqualified acceptance of Japanese demands. |
83 |
| Jan. 28 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Recommendation for dispatch of additional naval vessels to protect American property in vicinity of Shanghai. |
84 |
| Jan. 28 |
Memorandum by the Secretary of
State
Discussion with French Ambassador of situation at Shanghai; U. S. views regarding possibility of military occupation and blockade by Japan. |
84 |
| Jan. 28 (30) |
To the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Information for British representative that American Ambassador at Tokyo has been instructed to urge Japanese Foreign Office to consider the situation at Shanghai in relation to international interests and world peace. |
85 |
| Jan 28 (48) |
From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Intention of Chinese representative to make a formal statement before the Council, invoking articles 10 and 15 of the Covenant. |
86 |
| Jan. 28 (139) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Report of declaration of a state of emergency in Shanghai, and mobilization of foreign volunteers; opinion that powers should call upon Japan to recognize international character of the International Settlement and to respect its neutrality. |
87 |
| Jan. 28 |
Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Far
Eastern Affairs of a Conversation With the Japanese
Chargé
Japanese Chargé’s account of Shanghai incident and assurance of nonintention of Japanese Government to interfere with interests of other powers; repetition to Chargé of information received from Shanghai that Chinese Mayor has given a satisfactory reply to the Japanese demands. |
88 |
| (Note, January 29: Evidence that Japanese attack was begun nine hours after receipt of Chinese reply, and in spite of promises to give Municipal Council advance notice of any military action.) | 88 | |
| Jan. 28 (31) |
To the Minister in China
(tel.)
Instructions for guidance of the Consul General at Shanghai regarding the use of armed forces for the protection of American nationals and interests in China. |
89 |
Chapter II: January 29–31, 1932
| Date and number | Subject | Page |
| 1932 Jan. 29 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Report of occupation of Chapei by Japanese Navy at approximately midnight, January 28. |
89 |
| Jan. 29 (50) |
From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Letter from Chinese representative to the Secretary General of the League (text printed), whereby China invokes the application of articles 10 and 15 of the Covenant, in addition to League’s efforts under article 11. |
90 |
| Jan. 29 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Report on Japanese naval units now at Shanghai. |
91 |
| Jan. 29 (144) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Mukden, January 28: Announcement of dispatch of a number of Japanese troops and aircraft from Changchun to Harbin. |
91 |
| Jan. 29 (18) |
From the Consul General at Nanking
(tel.)
Appointment of Lo Wen-kan as Foreign Minister and Wang Ching-wei as President of Executive Yuan; Foreign Minister’s oral appeal for U. S. action under Nine-Power Treaty and Kellogg-Briand Pact to end Japanese hostility; advice that similar appeal is being made to France and Great Britain, and that Foreign Minister has telegraphed to the American Minister at Peiping requesting him to come to Nanking. |
91 |
| Jan. 29 |
Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State of a
Conversation With Mr. Thomas W.
Lamont, of J. P. Morgan & Company, in New York
City on January 28, 1932
Mr. Lamont’s opinion that Japan will be unable to secure a loan in the United States at the present time. |
92 |
| Undated |
From the British Embassy
Information that British Ambassador in Japan has been instructed to notify Japanese Government that the entry of Japanese armed forces into the International Settlement at Shanghai would be unjustifiable. |
93 |
| Jan. 29 (52) |
From the Consul at Geneva
(tel.)
Transmittal of communication from Secretary General of League (text printed), proposing formation of a temporary commission to investigate Shanghai incident, and indicating hope that U. S. Minister or Consul General will be authorized to be a member. |
94 |
| Jan. 29 (54) |
From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Gratitude of British representative for message conveyed in Department’s telegram No. 30, January 28. |
94 |
| Jan. 29 (53) |
From the Consul at Geneva
(tel.)
Understanding that temporary commission to investigate conditions in Shanghai, while intended to act pending arrival of Manchurian Commission, will be constituted under terms of article 15. |
95 |
| Jan. 29 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Continued military occupation of Chapei, which Japanese Consul General and Japanese Admiral claim is for protection of their nationals and not connected with the Consul General’s demands; visit, with British Consul General, to Japanese Consul General and Japanese Admiral in response to Mayor’s appeal. |
96 |
| Jan. 29 (28) |
From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
Advice that Naval Attaché has received official report from Japanese Navy Department that landing of Japanese forces was with an understanding with the Shanghai municipal authorities, for protection of Japanese residents outside of the Settlement zone. |
96 |
| Jan. 29 (148) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
To Shanghai: Opposition to suggestion for policing, by Settlement police, of territory occupied by Japanese, and to any step tending to involve U. S. or Settlement authorities in quarrel between” Japanese and Chinese. |
97 |
| Jan. 29 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Intention of Chinese members of Municipal Council to protest against use of International Settlement by Japanese forces as a base of operations. |
98 |
| Jan. 29 (30) |
From the Chargé in Great Britain
(tel.)
Information regarding British representations to the Japanese Government against use of Japanese troops in Shanghai. |
98 |
| Jan. 29 |
From the British Embassy
Text of Foreign Office telegram instructing British Ambassador in Tokyo to protest against an attack made on Chapei by Japanese forces; hope that U. S. Ambassador will be given similar instructions. |
99 |
| Jan. 29 |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Inquiry as to understanding between Japanese and the Shanghai municipal authorities reported by Tokyo Embassy in telegram No. 28, January 29. |
100 |
| Jan. 29 (40) |
To the Chargé in Great Britain
(tel.)
Message for Lord Lytton from General McCoy regarding necessity of adequate personal staff for each member of Manchurian Commission. |
101 |
| Jan. 29 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Japanese Consul General’s announcement at meeting of consular body on January 28 of receipt of satisfactory report from Mayor in regard to Japanese demands. |
102 |
| Jan. 29 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Arrangements for an armistice to begin at 8 p.m., January 29. |
103 |
| Jan. 29 (55) |
From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
League Council’s discussion of Chinese invocation of articles 10 and 15, and question of concurrent application of articles 11 and 15. |
104 |
| Jan. 29 (146) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Intention to leave for Nanking on January 31 in response to request by Acting Foreign Minister. |
108 |
| [Jan. 29] (8629) |
From the Commander of the Fourth Regiment, United
States Marines, to the Commander in Chief, United States Asiatic
Fleet (tel.)
Report on international military and naval forces at Shanghai. |
108 |
| Jan. 29 (323) |
From the Assistant Military Attaché in China to the
Adjutant General of the Army (tel.)
Belief that Japanese General Staff would not hesitate at hostilities with United States if their course is blocked. |
108 |
| Jan. 29 (470) |
From the Ambassador in Japan
Transmittal of a memorandum (text printed) on the Manchurian situation, expressing opinion that Japan, in performing a necessary task, has put herself in the wrong by resorting to force without first invoking the agencies of peace. |
109 |
| Jan. 30 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Unfavorable consideration by Municipal Council of Japanese suggestion for policing, by Settlement police, of Japanese-occupied territory. |
115 |
| Jan. 30 (19) |
From the Ambassador in Italy
(tel.)
Information that Italian Government will probably follow British action in making representations regarding Shanghai through the Japanese Ambassador. |
115 |
| Jan. 30 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Protest by Chairman of the Municipal Council to Senior Consul against Japanese military operations in International Settlement, particularly patrolling of American sector by Japanese patrols over protest of American commanding officer. |
116 |
| Jan. 30 (157) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Nanking, January 29: Japanese and Chinese efforts to avoid hostilities at Nanking. |
117 |
| Jan. 30 (158) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
To Shanghai: Request for views as to accuracy of the reasons given by the Japanese for their action in Chapei and in the International Settlement. |
117 |
| Jan. 30 (36) |
To the Minister in China (tel.)
Opinion that activities of International Settlement authorities and of defense forces at Shanghai should be confined to maintaining order in the Settlement. |
118 |
| Jan. 30 |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Instructions for Commanding Officer of American forces to avoid as far as possible any friction between American and other defense forces; instructions as Senior Consul to present to consular body the protest filed by the Chairman of the Municipal Council on January 30. |
118 |
| [Jan. 30] |
From the Commander of the Fourth Regiment, United
States Marines, to the Commander in Chief, United States Asiatic
Fleet (tel.)
Decision, at Defense Committee meeting, to request diplomatic representatives to protest to Japanese Admiral against Japanese disregard of neutrality of International Settlement. |
119 |
| Jan. 30 |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Instructions for guidance of Minister and Consul General in Shanghai situation. |
120 |
| Jan. 30 (32) |
To the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Instructions for replying to inquiries regarding U. S. attitude on possible invoking of Nine-Power Treaty. |
121 |
| Jan. 30 (20) |
From the Consul General at Nanking
(tel.)
To the Legation: Confidential information regarding Chinese military activity and dispatch of a circular telegram by Chiang Kai-shek to all officers and soldiers urging resistance to Japanese aggression. |
121 |
| Jan. 30 |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Suggestion for rearrangement of defense plan of Shanghai, assigning to the Japanese that part of the American sector in which Japanese interests predominate. |
123 |
| Jan. 30 (33) |
To the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Inability of the United States to appoint its Minister in China as a member of the temporary commission to investigate the Shanghai situation, but willingness to have him cooperate with the members of such a commission. |
123 |
| [Jan. 30] |
From the Chief of Naval Operations to the Commander
in Chief, United States Asiatic Fleet (tel.)
Instructions to avoid friction between American and other defense units at Shanghai. |
124 |
| Undated |
Memorandum of Trans-Atlantic Telephone
Conversation
Between the Secretary of State and Prime Minister MacDonald, January 30: Discussion of suggestion by President Hoover for a direct appeal to the heads of Government in China and Japan for a cessation of hostilities and beginning of negotiations for settlement of controversy in the presence of neutral observers. |
124 |
| Jan. 30 (43) |
To the Chargé in Great Britain (tel.)
Rough draft of communication for the Japanese Emperor (text printed), to be submitted to the Prime Minister, expressing proposal discussed in trans-Atlantic telephone conversation. |
128 |
| Jan. 30 (59) |
From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Aide-mémoire (text printed) from Secretary General of the League requesting U. S. Government to instruct its representative in China to cooperate with new emergency committee appointed by League to report on Shanghai situation. (Footnote: Instructions to Consul by telegram No. 34, February 1, 1 p.m., to reply to aide-mémoire according to instructions in telegram No. 33, January 30.) |
129 |
| Jan. 30 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Identic protest by Chinese members of the Municipal Council, to the Senior Consul and the Chairman of the Council, against Japanese violation of neutrality of International Settlement. |
131 |
| Jan. 30 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Report of bombings by Japanese planes and other Japanese military activity in International Settlement. |
132 |
| Jan. 30 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Request that landing forces from American vessels be increased. |
133 |
| Jan. 30 (34) |
From the Chargé in Great Britain
(tel.)
Foreign Office communiqué reporting British representations against use of International Settlement as base for Japanese attack, and Japanese Foreign Minister’s assurance that it would not be so used. |
133 |
| Jan. 30, (21) |
From the Consul General at Nanking
(tel.)
Transmission of note from the Foreign Minister (text printed), appealing to U. S. Government for action under the Nine-Power Treaty against Japanese violation of Chinese sovereignty and integrity. |
134 |
| Jan. 31 (22) |
From the Consul General at Nanking
(tel.)
Arrival of four Japanese destroyers, but assurance by Japanese Consul that the vessels will not take initiative in fire action. |
135 |
| Jan. 31 |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Department’s approval of efforts to check unauthorized military activities in the International Settlement, and of reported proposal for establishment of a neutral zone outside the Settlement; dispatch of American naval vessels from Manila to Shanghai as a precautionary measure. |
135 |
| Undated |
Memorandum of Trans-Atlantic Telephone
Conversation
Between the Secretary of State and Prime Minister MacDonald, January 31: British suggestion that similar messages in regard to the establishment of a neutral zone at Shanghai be sent by the President of the United States to the Japanese Emperor and by the British Prime Minister to the Japanese Prime Minister. |
136 |
| Jan. 31 (36) |
From the Chargé in Great Britain
(tel.)
Gravity of situation at Shanghai and British desire for American cooperation in setting up proposed neutral zone. |
140 |
| Jan. 31 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Data requested by Department regarding Japanese use of International Settlement as a base of operations. |
141 |
| Jan. 31 (37) |
From the Chargé in Great Britain
(tel.)
Foreign Office reactions regarding draft note transmitted in telegram No. 43, January 30. |
142 |
| Jan. 31 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Meeting of Chinese and Japanese representatives, with British and American Consuls as neutral observers, to seek solution for military situation in Shanghai; proposal, for joint consideration with Defense Committee, for formation of a neutral zone by withdrawal of all troops from a certain defined area. |
143 |
| Jan. 31 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Definition of terms “tongue” and “municipal property and road”, used in telegram of January 31, 4 p.m. (supra). |
143 |
| Jan. 31 (164) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
To Shanghai: Approval of consular representations to Japanese Consul General against reported Japanese actions which appear to violate Settlement’s neutrality. |
144 |
| Jan. 31 (39) |
From the Chargé in Great Britain
(tel.)
Foreign Office communiqué (text printed), regarding British military and naval forces at Shanghai and interest in proposed establishment of a neutral zone between Chinese and Japanese troops. |
145 |
| Jan. 31 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Decision of Municipal Council not to file a formal protest against violation of Settlement neutrality. |
145 |
| Jan. 31 |
From the British Embassy
Renewed British protests against continued Japanese action violating Settlement neutrality; hope for similar U. S. action. |
146 |
| Jan. 31 |
Statement by the White House
Announcement concerning dispatch of military and naval forces to Shanghai for protection of American citizens, in response to request of American Consul General and naval officers at Shanghai. |
146 |
| Jan. 31 (45) |
To the Chargé in Great Britain
(tel.)
Instructions to inform Prime Minister that, for the present, a postponement of project discussed in trans-Atlantic telephone conversation of January 31 seems advisable. |
147 |
| Jan. 31 (10) |
To the Consul General at Nanking
(tel.)
Instructions to call on Foreign Minister and urge the exercise of restraint by the Chinese Government in regard to the situation at Shanghai. |
147 |
| Jan. 31 (23) |
From the Consul General at Nanking
(tel.)
Substance of statement on Chinese policy made by the Foreign Minister at a conference attended by British, French, and American representatives. |
147 |
| Jan. 31 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Defense Committee’s suggestion for creation of a neutral zone, and improbability that it will be accepted by the Japanese. |
149 |
| Jan. 31 (24) |
From the Consul General at Nanking
(tel.)
Anxiety over situation at Nanking, but decision, at meeting with British and French Consuls and British and American naval officers, not to advise evacuation. |
149 |
| Jan. 31 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Account of situation within International Settlement. |
151 |
| Undated |
From the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs at
Nanking to the Chinese Legation
Account of presentation of Japanese demands at Shanghai, Chinese reply, and subsequent Japanese attack. |
151 |
Chapter III: February 1–8, 1932
| Date and number | Subject | Page |
| 1932 Feb. 1 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Chinese and Japanese reports of breaking of truce; request that supplemental naval forces be rushed. |
152 |
| Undated |
Memorandum of Transatlantic Telephone
Conversation
Between the Secretary of State and Prime Minister MacDonald, February 1: Discussion of Japanese request for good offices, and U. S. five-point proposal for cessation of conflict to be made by United States, Great Britain, France, and Italy. |
153 |
| Feb. 1 (63) |
From the Consul at Geneva
(tel.)
Information that Drummond has been advised orally of Department’s attitude regarding Commission of Inquiry at Shanghai. |
156 |
| Feb. 1 |
Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State of a
Conversation With the Counselor of the French
Embassy
Information regarding French representations in Japan concerning Shanghai, and denial of press reports that France was not cooperating with other powers in China because of an understanding with Japan. |
157 |
| Undated |
Memorandum of Trans-Atlantic Telephone
Conversation
Between the Secretary of State and Prime Minister MacDonald, February 1: British agreement in principle, if not in wording, with five-point proposal for cessation of conflict. |
158 |
| Undated |
Memorandum of Trans-Atlantic Telephone
Conversation
Between the Secretary of State and Sir John Simon, February 1: Further discussion of terms of the proposal. |
159 |
| Feb. 1 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Explanation, requested in Department’s telegram of January 29, 6 p.m., of alleged Japanese understanding with Shanghai municipal authorities. |
165 |
| Feb. 1 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Continuance of truce in spite of sniping and sporadic firing by both Chinese and Japanese. |
166 |
| Feb. 1 |
Memorandum by the Secretary of
State
Discussion with French Ambassador of Japanese desire for good offices and of the suggested proposal for cessation of hostilities. |
166 |
| Feb. 1 (12) |
To the Consul General at Nanking
(tel.)
Note for Foreign Minister containing text of the Proposal of the Powers for Cessation of Conflict, to be delivered February 2, in conjunction with British colleague; information that similar note will be delivered to the Japanese Government at the same time. |
167 |
| Feb. 1 (25) |
From the Consul General at Nanking
(tel.)
Note from Chinese Foreign Minister, January 31 (text printed), requesting that United States take steps to stop Japanese military operations in Chapei and use of International Settlement as a base of operations. |
168 |
| Feb. 1 (65) |
From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Assertion by Chinese representative that rumors of a declaration of war by China are unfounded. |
169 |
| Feb. 1 (1) |
To the Minister in Switzerland, at Geneva
(tel.)
Instructions to keep in touch with Sino-Japanese situation, while at Disarmament Conference. |
170 |
| Feb. 1 (171) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Situation at Harbin, as reported by Consul General there. |
171 |
| Feb. 1 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Information that Defense Committee is preparing a letter to the Japanese Admiral requesting that certain unauthorized Japanese military activities be stopped. |
171 |
| Feb. 1 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Conversation with Wellington Koo, who expressed hope that powers could obtain Japanese Government’s approval for withdrawal of Japanese from the “tongue,” thereby greatly easing situation in Shanghai. |
172 |
| Feb. 1 (165) |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Announcement by National Government that seat of government has been transferred temporarily to Loyang (Honanfu), Honan Province, but that the Minister of War and the Foreign Minister will remain in Nanking. |
172 |
| Feb. 1 (27) |
From the Consul General at Nanking
(tel.)
Delivery to Foreign Minister of Department’s message contained in telegram No. 10, January 31. |
173 |
| Undated |
From the French Embassy
Measures taken by French Government in cooperating with other powers in defense of International Settlement. |
173 |
| Feb. 2 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Message from Japanese Consulate General calling attention to Chinese attacks in violation of truce, and intention of Japanese to use some reconnaissance airplanes. |
175 |
| Feb. 2 |
Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State of a
Conversation With the Counselor of the French
Embassy
Information that French Ambassador in Tokyo has again been instructed to make representations regarding the situation in Shanghai. |
175 |
| Feb. 2 (67) |
From the Consul at Geneva
(tel.)
Possibility of invocation by China of Nine-Power Treaty, and League opinion that such action is undesirable at the present time. |
176 |
| Feb. 1 |
From the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs at
Nanking to the Chinese Legation
Denial of press reports that Chinese Government intends to declare war on Japan. |
178 |
| Feb. 2 |
From the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs at
Nanking to the Chinese Legation
Report of bombing of Nanking by Japanese warships, without warning, on February 1. |
178 |
| Undated |
Memorandum of Trans-Atlantic Telephone
Conversation
Between the Secretary of State and Sir John Simon, February 2: Discussion concerning Japanese Foreign Minister’s favorable attitude toward first four points of proposal for cessation of conflict, but objection to fifth point, which involves acceptance of neutral observers in settlement of controversy; U. S. emphasis on importance of fifth point. |
179 |
| Feb. 2 (70) |
From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Report of League Council meeting at which approval was given to concerted action being taken by United States and Great Britain in making representations at Tokyo and Nanking. |
184 |
| Feb. 2 (28) |
From the Consul General at Nanking
(tel.)
Tension over origin of shooting incident at Nanking; intention to evacuate American women and children. |
185 |
| Feb. 2 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Oral communication from Japanese Consulate General that Japanese Government cannot accept proposal for creation of a neutral zone. |
185 |
| Feb. 2 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Delivery to Foreign Office of note containing proposal for cessation of conflict. |
186 |
| Feb. 2 (5) |
From the Acting Chairman of the American Delegation
to the General Disarmament Conference
From Wilson: Information that first meeting of inquiry commission has been held at Shanghai and that all members of commission are Consuls General. |
186 |
| Feb. 2 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Report of arrival in Nanking. |
187 |
| Feb. 2 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Chinese reply (text printed) accepting proposal for cessation of conflict. |
187 |
| Feb. 3 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Substance of formal protest by Defense Committee against certain activities by the Japanese naval landing party. |
187 |
| Feb. 3 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Further report of Chinese and Japanese military activities in Shanghai. |
189 |
| Feb. 3 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Firing between Chinese and Japanese forces in Chapei district, and at Woosung; use by Japanese of reconnaissance planes directed from neutral Settlement territory. |
191 |
| Feb. 3 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Report of discussion at meeting of Defense Committee and Japanese and Chinese representatives on January 31 as to whether Japanese occupation of Hongkew area had been authorized by Defense Committee. |
192 |
| Feb. 3 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Information from Japanese Consulate General that three Japanese destroyers were fired upon by Woosung forts and that Japanese are arranging to occupy the forts. |
193 |
| Feb. 3 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Note from Foreign Minister (text printed) expressing the hope, in regard to fifth point of the proposal for cessation of conflict, that powers will be participants rather than observers in negotiations. |
193 |
| Feb. 3 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Request for instructions concerning sale of aviation gasoline to Chinese by American companies. |
194 |
| Feb. 3 (189) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Harbin: Report that situation at Harbin is unchanged. |
195 |
| Feb. 3 (37) |
From the Ambassador in Japan
(tel.)
Expectation that Foreign Minister’s reply to proposal of the powers for the cessation of the conflict will be received the following day; request for direct reports from Consul General at Shanghai regarding situation there. |
195 |
| Feb. 3 (35) |
To the Ambassador in Japan
(tel.)
Information that Consul General at Shanghai has been instructed in accordance with Ambassador’s request (supra). |
196 |
| Feb. 3 |
Memorandum by the Under Secretary of
State
Conversation with British Ambassador, who presented a memorandum (infra); discussion of necessity for solidarity between Great Britain and the United States in action regarding Japan. |
196 |
| Feb. 3 |
From the British Embassy
Aide-mémoire setting forth instructions to British Ambassador in Tokyo, February 2 (text printed), to protest to the Japanese Government against the actions of their troops in Shanghai; hope for similar action by United States. |
197 |
| Feb. 3 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Letter from Mayor of Shanghai, February 2 (text printed), regarding message from Japanese Consul General that Japan is unable to accept proposal of January 31, and advising that Japanese have broken the truce by an attack in Chapei. |
198 |
| Feb. 3 (0003) |
From the Commander in Chief, United States Asiatic
Fleet, to the Chief of Naval Operations (tel.)
Danger to American lives and property in Shanghai; information that it has been recommended to the American Consul General that consular body should protest to the Japanese against further use of Settlement as a base of operations. |
199 |
| [Feb. 3] |
From the Chief of Naval Operations to the Commander
in Chief, United States Asiatic Fleet (tel.)
Instructions, when exchanging calls with new Japanese commander, Admiral Nomura, to express confidence that a satisfactory solution will be found to the Shanghai situation. |
200 |
| [Feb. 3] |
From the Chief of Naval Operations to the Commander
in Chief, United States Asiatic Fleet (tel.)
Instructions to assure British military and naval authorities of full cooperation in preserving the neutrality and safety of the International Settlement. |
200 |
| Feb. 3 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Note from the Chairman of the Municipal Council to Senior Consul (excerpt printed) supporting Defense Committee’s formal protest, and requesting that urgent representations be made to the Japanese authorities; assumption that Consul General is authorized to join with colleagues in making requested representations. |
200 |
| Feb. 3 |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Approval of proposed joint representations; information that Ambassador in Tokyo has been instructed to make a fourth set of representations on the subject. |
201 |
| Feb. 4 (39) |
From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
Caution by British Ambassador against use of economic boycott threat against Japan before completing defense arrangements in other Chinese ports, including Hong Kong. |
202 |
| Feb. 4 (5) |
From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Two memoranda of conversations (texts printed): (1) between Drummond and Japanese representatives regarding question of application of article 15 to Manchuria; (2) between Drummond and Sugimura, Undersecretary General of fifth League, regarding suggestion for modification of fifth point of British-American proposal. |
202 |
| [Feb. 4] |
From the Commander in Chief, United States Asiatic
Fleet, to the Chief of Naval Operations (tel.)
Information that Japanese posts and patrols have been withdrawn from British and American sectors. |
205 |
| Feb. 4 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Letter from the consular body (text printed) to the Japanese Consul General, transmitting the letter of February 3 from the Chairman of the Municipal Council and supporting the representations of the Council contained therein. |
205 |
| Feb. 4 (6) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Refusal of Japanese Delegation to submit to Tokyo the suggestion contained in second memorandum reported in telegram No. 5, February 4. |
206 |
| Feb. 4 |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Suggestion for representations to be made to the Japanese Government for the withdrawal of their excess naval units at Nanking; information that British and French colleagues are making similar suggestions to their Governments. |
207 |
| Feb. 4 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Information that all Japanese marines had left American sector by 10 a.m., February 4, and British sector by midnight, February 3. |
208 |
| Feb. 4 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Request for permission to reply to inquiry from the pastor of the Community Church regarding Japanese action, and to all similar inquiries, that the U. S. Government has filed a protest with the Japanese Government. |
208 |
| Feb. 4 (54) |
To the Chargé in Great Britain
(tel.)
Message for the Foreign Minister stressing the importance of British-American solidarity in their policy toward Japan; report of conversation with Japanese Ambassador on February 3, in which he was advised to inform his Government of U. S. determination to maintain the neutrality of the Settlement; desire for similar British action. |
209 |
| Feb. 4 |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Instructions regarding sale of aviation gasoline to Chinese military. |
210 |
| Feb. 4 |
Memorandum by the Secretary of
State
Italian Ambassador’s assurance of Italian cooperation in effort to avoid further development of conflict at Shanghai. |
210 |
| Feb. 4 |
Memorandum by the Secretary of
State
Conversation with Portuguese Minister, who said that his Government had sent note to the Japanese Government regarding the International Settlement. |
211 |
| Undated |
Memorandum of Trans-Atlantic Telephone
Conversation
Between the Secretary of State and the Chargé in Great Britain, February 4: Chargé’s information that Secretary’s message in telegram No. 54, February 4, has been conveyed to the Foreign Minister, who suggested further points for consideration; Secretary’s desire that Foreign Minister be given information on Japanese troop movements in Shanghai area. |
211 |
| Feb. 4 |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Report on probable Japanese troop movements, based on unconfirmed information. |
214 |
| Feb. 4 |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Instructions requested in Consul General’s telegram of February 4, 6 p.m., for replying to certain inquiries. |
214 |
| Feb. 4 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Continued bombardment of Woosung forts by Japanese and closing of Woosung harbor by martial law between 5 p.m. and 7 a.m. |
214 |
| Feb. 4 (49) |
From the Chargé in Great Britain
(tel.)
Further message from British Foreign Minister outlining three points for consideration in future action regarding Japan. |
216 |
| Feb. 5 (2) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Remarks by Chinese official regarding Chinese determination to resist Japan in present Shanghai conflict, for purposes of morale, and to give more time for action by neutral powers. |
216 |
| Feb. 5 (3) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Official notification of special martial law in regard to Woosung harbor; information that commander in chief and American shippers have been notified accordingly. |
217 |
| Feb. 5 |
Memorandum by the Under Secretary of
State
Conversation with the Japanese Ambassador regarding reports of the dispatch of a division to Shanghai. |
217 |
| Feb. 5 |
Memorandum by the Under Secretary of
State
Conversation with German Ambassador, who inquired regarding developments in the Far Eastern situation. |
219 |
| Undated |
Memorandum of Trans-Atlantic Telephone
Conversation
Between the Under Secretary of State and the Chargé in Great Britain, February 5: British intention to send two telegrams (texts printed) to the British Ambassador in Tokyo for representations to the Japanese Government, if U. S. Government agrees to send similar instructions. |
219 |
| Undated |
Memorandum of Trans-Atlantic Telephone
Conversation
Between the Secretary of State and the Chargé in Great Britain, February 5: Instructions to the Chargé to inform British Foreign Office of U. S. concurrence in need for Anglo-American unity, but inability to accept proposed telegrams; counterproposal in the form of a draft memorandum to the Japanese Government (text printed). |
221 |
| Feb. 5 (4) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Daily report on military situation. |
225 |
| Feb. 5 (5) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Consideration by consular body of Municipal Council’s request for support in securing release of the prisoners being detained by Japanese military authorities in the Settlement, and means by which this could be attained. |
226 |
| Feb. 5 (21) |
To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.)
For the Minister: Belief that it is not advisable to make suggested representations concerning disposal of Japanese naval forces at Nanking; desire, however, to be informed of reaction of French and British Governments to this suggestion. |
227 |
| Feb. 5 |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Instructions for cooperating with members of League Commission of Inquiry at Shanghai. |
227 |
| Feb. 5 (32) |
From the Consul General at Nanking
(tel.)
Consulate General’s advice to all American women and children and all men whose presence is not urgently required, to leave Nanking. |
228 |
| Feb. 5 (53) |
From the Chargé in Great Britain
(tel.)
Note suggested by Foreign Office (text printed) as possible basis of an identic note from the four powers to the Japanese Government. |
228 |
| Feb. 6 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Advice from Foreign Minister that the sending of Chinese reinforcements to Shanghai was necessitated by reported dispatch of a Japanese division to Shanghai, and was not intended as a violation of their acceptance of the terms of the proposal for the cessation of conflict. |
229 |
| Feb. 6 (9) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Reported Japanese refusal of points 2 and 5 of the five-point proposal; request for Department’s views, for information of League Council, as to next step to be taken. |
230 |
| Feb. 6 (7) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Information requested by Department regarding the declaration of a state of emergency by the Shanghai Municipal Council on January 28. |
230 |
| Feb. 6 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Two notes from the Foreign Minister, February 5 (texts printed), protesting the action of the International Settlement in allowing Japan to use the Settlement as a base of military operations and requesting that such action be stopped. |
231 |
| Feb. 6 (8) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Appointment by consular body of Committee of Four to inspect prisoners held by the Japanese. Advice from Japanese Consul General that two mixed brigades will be landed within the Settlement in next few days. |
232 |
| Feb. 6 (9) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Daily report on situation at Shanghai, which remains unchanged. |
233 |
| Undated |
Memorandum of Trans-Atlantic Telephone
Conversation
Between the Secretary of State and Sir John Simon in Geneva, February 6: Discussion of new Japanese proposal for immediate cessation of hostilities at Shanghai, arrangements for which they desire to be carried out locally; willingness to agree, provided three points are observed. |
234 |
| Feb. 6 (44) |
To the Ambassador in Japan
(tel.)
Instructions to refrain from expressing any views to Japanese Government regarding the new proposal, other than that the Department is considering the matter. |
240 |
| Feb. 6 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
To Shanghai, for Admiral Taylor: Information that Chinese officials agree in principle to Japanese suggestion for a neutral zone at Shanghai, provided it is only a temporary arrangement. |
241 |
| Feb. 6 (45) |
To the Ambassador in Japan
(tel.)
Information that U. S. Consul General at Shanghai is being’ authorized to cooperate in an attempt to work out locally a solution based on Japanese proposal. |
242 |
| Feb. 6 (56) |
To the Chargé in Great Britain
(tel.)
Instructions to inform Foreign Office of agreement reached in telephone conversation with Sir John Simon regarding Japanese proposal, and instructions sent Consul General at Shanghai (text printed) in the matter. |
242 |
| Feb. 6 (6) |
To the Minister in Switzerland, at Geneva
(tel.)
Instructions in reply to Minister’s telegram No. 9 of February 6. |
244 |
| Feb. 6 (23) |
To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.)
For the Minister: Instructions for replying to Foreign Minister’s notes of February 5 on basis of Department’s previous telegraphic instructions, giving assurance that this Government, together with other interested Governments, is giving the matter careful consideration. |
244 |
| Feb. 6 (12) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Decision of League Council, in private meeting, not to hold public debate on Sino-Japanese dispute at the February 6 meeting. |
245 |
| Feb. 6 (13) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Desire of Chinese representative for guidance in his efforts to keep Chinese situation actively before the League, so as not to interfere with action by U. S. Government. |
245 |
| Feb. 7 (204) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Nanking; Report that situation is quiet at present, but that Consul General has advised evacuation of American women and children. |
246 |
| Feb. 7 (10) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Advice that Chinese have decided to use airplanes against the Japanese, but they will not carry bombs and will use every precaution to prevent endangering the Settlement. |
246 |
| Feb. 7 (49) |
From the Ambassador in Japan
(tel.)
Information that Department’s instructions in telegram No. 44, February 6, are being carefully followed. |
247 |
| Feb. 7 (207) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Harbin: Report of occupation of Harbin by Japanese troops on February 5. |
247 |
| Feb. 7 (11) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Expectation that Japanese mixed brigade will arrive in Shanghai afternoon of February 7. |
248 |
| Feb. 7 (12) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Assurance from Japanese Consul General that Japanese brigade will be landed at Woosung, and not in the International Settlement. |
249 |
| Feb. 7 (50) |
From the Ambassador in Japan
(tel.)
Conversation with Admiral Toyoda about events leading up to the Shanghai incident, and his explanation that troops being sent to China are for relief reinforcements only. |
250 |
| Feb. 7 (51) |
From the Ambassador in Japan
(tel.)
Explanation of Embassy staff’s part in development of new Japanese proposal. |
251 |
| Feb. 8 |
Memorandum of Trans-Atlantic Telephone
Conversation
Between the Secretary of State, the Under Secretary, and Gibson: Gibson’s report of conversation with Sir John Simon, who hopes to keep League Council from taking vigorous action while negotiations are pending in Shanghai. |
251 |
| Feb. 8 |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Intention, in agreement with British colleague, to go to Shanghai to assist in peace negotiations if Department approves. |
252 |
| Feb. 8 (25) |
To the Consul General at Nanking (tel.)
For the Minister: Approval of presence in Shanghai in advisory capacity. |
252 |
| Feb. 8 (8) |
To the Minister in Switzerland, at Geneva
(tel.)
Instructions for replying to Chinese representative’s request for advice (set forth in Minister’s telegram No. 13, February 6). |
253 |
| Feb. 8 (27) |
To the Ambassador in Mexico
(tel.)
Instructions to express informally to the Foreign Minister and the Minister of War the appreciation of the President and the Secretary for the Mexican Government’s assurance of nonsupport of Japan in the event of difficulties between the United States and Japan. |
254 |
| Feb. 8 (17) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Concurrence in first report of League Inquiry Committee issued February 6. |
254 |
| Feb. 8 (18) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Belief that Japanese are hesitating to attack Chapei in force until the complete capture of Woosung is effected. |
255 |
Chapter IV: February 9–16, 1932
| Date and number | Subject | Page |
| 1932 Feb. 9 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Rumored Japanese proposal for establishment of demilitarized zones around Shanghai and other principal trading ports of China; warning of adverse effect of such a suggestion upon the Chinese, and suggestion for issuance of a statement upholding principles of the Nine-Power Treaty. |
256 |
| Feb. 9 (19) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Letter from the Chairman of the Municipal Council to the Senior Consul, February 6 (text printed), protesting against danger to Settlement from Chinese and Japanese airplane flights over it; letter from the consular body, February 8 (text printed), to the Japanese Consul General (to be sent also, mutatis mutandis, to the Mayor of Shanghai), transmitting a copy of the Chairman’s letter and endorsing his representations. |
258 |
| Feb. 9 (20) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Letter from the Mayor of Shanghai, February 8 (text printed), regarding failure of the Municipal Council to prevent the use of the International Settlement by Japanese armed forces and declaring that the Chinese Government will not be responsible for damages to foreign life and property caused by actions of Chinese troops against Japanese forces. |
259 |
| Feb. 9 (21) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Municipal Council’s reply, February 6 (text printed), to Mayor’s letters of January 30 and February 3, advising that the Japanese Government, and not the Municipal Council, is solely responsible for the acts of the Japanese armed forces in the International Settlement; further protest by Mayor to the Council, February 6 (text printed). |
259 |
| Feb. 9 |
Memorandum by the Secretary of
State
Conversation with the British Ambassador on the Shanghai situation and possible future action by the United States, either alone or in conjunction with Great Britain’ and possibly the other powers. |
261 |
| Feb. 9 |
Memorandum by the Secretary of State of a
Conversation With the Chinese Chargé
Appeal from ten Chinese Associations in Shanghai (text printed), to signatories of the League Covenant, the Kellogg Pact, and the Nine-Power Treaty for action against Japanese aggression; Chargé’s explanation that he is submitting the appeal inasmuch as its tenor coincides with policy of the Chinese Government. |
262 |
| Feb. 9 (47) |
To the Minister in China (tel.)
Emphatic denial that United States has any intention to desist from protests or that it contemplates evacuating its citizens from Shanghai. |
265 |
| Feb. 9 (25) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Heavy bombardment of Woosung Village by Japanese; arrival of Admiral Nomura, commander of Japanese forces in Shanghai area. |
265 |
| Feb. 9 (79) |
From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
League Council’s resumption of public debate on Sino-Japanese question. |
266 |
| Feb. 10 (40) |
From the Consul General at Nanking
(tel.)
Information that Japanese have three cruisers and three destroyers at Nanking. |
267 |
| Feb. 10 (27) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Request for Department’s authorization of draft reply (text printed) to Shanghai Mayor’s note of February 8. |
267 |
| Feb. 10 (10) |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Approval of draft reply. |
268 |
| Feb. 10 (58) |
From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
Receipt of official information that Japanese 9th Division is leaving for Shanghai, and that 2nd Division is to remain at Harbin until peace and order are restored. |
268 |
| Feb. 10 (59) |
From the Chargé in Great Britain
(tel.)
Statement made by Mr. Baldwin before the House of Commons concerning representations to the Japanese Government regarding the violation of the International Settlement at Shanghai. |
269 |
| Feb. 10 (29) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Japanese Consul General’s request for list of American property and investments in certain specified area. |
269 |
| Feb. 10 (30) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Japanese preparations for new attack on Woosung. |
270 |
| Feb. 10 (31) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Information that Japanese have made no approach regarding peace plans, and belief that they have no such plans. |
271 |
| Feb. 10 (12) |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Instructions regarding furnishings of list requested by Japanese Consul General. |
272 |
| Feb. 10 (13) |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Concurrence in belief that Japanese have no peace plans, and opinion that American effort should be confined to protection of International Settlement. |
272 |
| Feb. 10 (59) |
To the Chargé in Great Britain
(tel.)
Instructions to inform Foreign Office of substance of telegram No. 31 from the Consul General at Shanghai, and Department’s reply, No. 13, both dated February 10, and to advise that there appears to be no reason for further delay by any Government or organization in proceeding with any contemplated plan. |
273 |
| Feb. 10 (20) |
From the Acting Chairman of the American Delegation
to the General Disarmament Conference (tel.)
Indication of attitude of some of the powers that U.S.-British action has relieved the League Council of responsibility in the Far Eastern situation; recommendation for resumption of direct contact with League. |
273 |
| Feb. 11 (45) |
From the Consul General at Nanking
(tel.)
Comments on Chinese Government’s paradoxical policy of publicly maintaining resistance to Japan, while secretly giving the impression of willingness to negotiate in hope of forestalling military action in Yangtze region. |
275 |
| Feb. 11 (17) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Request by President of League Council for news and advice regarding Far East situation. |
276 |
| Feb. 11 (33) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Expression of regret by Japanese Consul General for bomb dropped accidentally by Japanese plane within the Settlement. |
276 |
| Feb. 11 (34) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Letter from Mayor of Shanghai to Senior Consul, February 10 (text printed), replying to consular body’s protest regarding flight of military airplanes over Settlement. |
277 |
| Undated |
Memorandum of Trans-Atlantic Telephone
Conversation
Between the Secretary of State and Sir John Simon in Geneva, February 11: U. S. suggestion for issuance of a declaration by the United States and Great Britain, and any other nations who may wish to join, upholding the Nine-Power Treaty in respect to the sovereignty of China, and refusing to recognize any action in violation of that treaty. |
278 |
| Feb. 11 (36) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Comment that military situation has been relatively quiet at Chapei and Woosung. |
284 |
| Feb. 11 (18) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Drummond’s request for any information regarding Shanghai situation which U. S. Government can supply, for his report to League Council. |
285 |
| Feb. 11 (61) |
From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
Opinion that Japanese desire to end hostilities at Shanghai and that best policy is to make no move for the present. |
286 |
| Feb. 11 |
Memorandum by the Secretary of
State
Conversation with French Ambassador regarding various attempts at mediation in Shanghai situation, and action under the Nine-Power Treaty now being considered to offset Japanese attacks against principles of the treaty. |
287 |
| Feb. 11 |
Memorandum by the Under Secretary of
State
Conversation with the German Ambassador regarding developments in Shanghai situation. |
289 |
| Feb. 11 (11) |
To the Acting Chairman of the American Delegation to
the Disarmament Conference (tel.)
For Wilson: Summary of Shanghai situation; decision of U. S. Government to confine its efforts to protection of the Settlement and to make no further effort toward conciliatory measures between the disputants; view that way is now open for any plan of action which any government or organization may desire to take. |
290 |
| Feb. 11 (10) |
To the Minister in Switzerland, at Geneva
(tel.)
Information that lengthy instruction in reply to inquiry made in telegram No. 17, February 11, is being sent (supra). |
292 |
| Feb. 11 (51) |
To the Ambassador in Japan
(tel.)
Instructions to use great caution and to keep Department fully informed in the event of the development of any future projects in regard to Shanghai. |
292 |
| Feb. 11 (15) |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Authorization to protest against any use of Settlement, by either disputant, for military operations, including airplane flights over it. |
293 |
| Feb. 12 (37) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Japanese assurance that orders have been given to stop flying over the Settlement. |
293 |
| Feb. 12 (38) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Arrangement for a 4–hour truce for evacuation of wounded and noncombatants from Chapei area. |
293 |
| Undated |
Memorandum of Trans-Atlantic Telephone
Conversation
Between the Secretary of State and Sir John Simon in Geneva, February 12: Arrangements for sending of draft declaration to Simon for consideration with a view to joint action by U. S. and British Governments. |
294 |
| Feb. 12 (81) |
From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Text of Chinese request that Sino-Japanese dispute be submitted to the League Assembly. |
298 |
| Feb. 12 (48) |
From the Consul General at Nanking
(tel.)
Foreign Minister’s request that British and American Ministers be urged to do their utmost to prevent the increase in Japanese military forces at Shanghai from leading to further hostilities. |
298 |
| Feb. 12 (64) |
From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
Details regarding relations with Japanese Foreign Office and Army and Navy, described as cordial and satisfactory. |
299 |
| Feb. 12 (40) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Evacuation of refugees from Chapei area during the 4-hour truce; Chapei expectation that Japanese drive on Woosung will occur about the 14th. |
300 |
| Undated |
Memorandum of Trans-Atlantic Telephone
Conversation
Between the Secretary of State and Wilson, February 12: Wilson’s report on discussion at private meeting of League Council regarding the transfer of the Sino-Japanese dispute from the Council to the Assembly. |
301 |
| Feb. 12 (12) |
To the Minister in Switzerland, at Geneva
(tel.)
Instructions for replying to Drummond’s request for information on Shanghai question. |
305 |
| Feb. 12 (16) |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
For the Minister and Consul-General: Information that League has been advised of Department’s approval in principle of any effort to end hostilities. |
306 |
| Feb. 12 (17) |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
For the Minister: Instructions to keep in close touch with British Minister and to keep Department informed on situation. |
306 |
| Feb. 12 (19) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Continuation of report on Council meeting with reference to transfer of Sino-Japanese question to the Assembly. |
307 |
| Feb. 12 (19) |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
For the Minister: Agreement with suggestion in telegram of February 9 for statement upholding provisions and principles of Nine-Power Treaty; instructions to discuss with British Minister other suggestions for meeting Japanese attempts to undermine authority of the Treaty. |
308 |
| Feb. 12 |
Memorandum by the Minister in
China
Conversation with group of Chinese officials regarding possibility of bringing about a cessation of hostilities. |
309 |
| Feb. 12 (8127) |
From the Consul General at
Shanghai
Submission of report of the committee appointed by the consular body to make recommendations regarding certain Chinese prisoners held by the Japanese. |
310 |
| Undated |
Statement of the Chinese Government
Summary of the Sino-Japanese dispute. |
311 |
| Feb. 13 (42) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Mayer for Military Attaché: Figures on number of troops in Shanghai. |
315 |
| Feb. 13 (43) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Decision not to request American companies to refrain from selling gasoline to either Chinese or Japanese; British decision not to sell to either side. |
316 |
| Feb. 13 |
Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Far
Eastern Affairs
Discussion with British Ambassador regarding opposite positions taken with respect to selling of gasoline at Shanghai. |
316 |
| Feb. 13 (65) |
From the Ambassador in Japan
(tel.)
Importance of patience and inactivity in U. S. policy toward Japan, in view of indications that conservative Japanese elements will assert themselves. |
317 |
| Feb. 13 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Estimate of the situation at Shanghai. |
317 |
| Feb. 13 (44) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Information that, in spite of assurances, Japanese bombing planes have passed over American sector. |
319 |
| Feb. 13 (21) |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Suggestion that official protest against Japanese flights over the Settlement be made in cooperation with British colleague. |
320 |
| Feb. 13 (45) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Information that large body of troops is arriving from Japan, and that some of them will be landed in the International Settlement. |
320 |
| Feb. 13 (22) |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Instructions to endeavor to secure support of British and French colleagues in protest against proposed landing of troops in International Settlement. |
321 |
| Feb. 13 (46) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Japanese notification to the Chairman of the Municipal Council (text printed) of necessity for billeting part of Japanese troops in the Settlement temporarily. |
322 |
| Feb. 13 (13) |
To the Minister in Switzerland, at Geneva
(tel.)
Further instructions for replying to Drummond’s request for information regarding Shanghai situation. |
323 |
| Feb. 13 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Opinion, with which British Minister concurs, that there is possibility of arriving at cessation of hostilities. |
323 |
| Feb. 13 (20) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Delivery of draft proposal to Sir John Simon; private letter from Simon to Council members (text printed) advising of failure of four-power démarche and end of negotiations to which United States is a party. |
324 |
| Feb. 13 (492) |
From the Ambassador in Japan
Report on attitude of Japanese public toward recent Japanese military action at Shanghai, and comparison with strategy in Manchuria. |
325 |
| Feb. 13 |
Memorandum by the Minister in
China
Conversation with Dr. Wellington Koo regarding possibility of arranging for a joint withdrawal of Chinese and Japanese troops. |
327 |
| Feb. 14 |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Suggestion by Wellington Koo for a meeting of interested powers to settle Shanghai question and to work out agenda for a conference on all Far East questions. |
328 |
| Feb. 14 (47) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Observation that complete withdrawal of Japanese forces from the Settlement is best means of preserving safety of American citizens and of the Settlement, but is impossible of attainment. |
328 |
| Feb. 14 (21) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Suggestion that Drummond be given a memorandum covering history of the negotiations initiated in collaboration with the British Government for the cessation of hostilities at Shanghai. |
329 |
| Feb. 14 (83) |
From the Consul at Geneva
(tel.)
Communication, circulated by Secretary General of the League at request of Chinese delegate, dated February 11 from Director General of National Flood Relief Commission (text printed), protesting against Japanese air bombardments of flood refugee camp. |
329 |
| Feb. 14 (50) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Report that 12,000 Japanese troops have landed in the International Settlement. |
330 |
| Feb. 14 (66) |
From the Ambassador in Japan
(tel.)
Opinion, agreed to by British, French, German, and Italian Ambassadors, that the various Governments should take no action for the present. |
330 |
| Feb. 15 |
From the Consul General at Nanking
(tel.)
Note from Foreign Minister to the American Minister, February 14 (excerpt printed), protesting against Japanese use of International Settlement as a base for military operations, and requesting U. S. action in view of American Minister’s assurance on February 10 of his Government’s interest in the matter; information that similar protest has been addressed to the British Minister. |
330 |
| Feb. 15 (51) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Information that Americans in several nearby towns have been advised to withdraw to places of greater safety in view of possible retreat of Chinese forces. |
331 |
| Feb. 15 (225) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Shanghai: Report on Japanese military strength. |
332 |
| Feb. 15 (52) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Information that three German ex-Army officers are reported to be directing Chinese military operations at Shanghai. |
332 |
| Feb. 15 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Arrival of four Japanese transports with troops and heavy material. |
333 |
| Feb. 15 (54) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Concurrence in second report of League of Nations Shanghai Committee, issued February 12. |
333 |
| Feb. 15 (55) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Communication from Senior Consul to Japanese Consul General, February 13 (text printed), renewing representations regarding flights of military airplanes over International Settlement. |
334 |
| Feb. 15 (29) |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
For the Minister and the Consul General: Approval of position taken regarding sale of aviation gasoline, but emphasizing again desirability of cooperation with British colleague toward working out with him a common course. |
334 |
| Undated |
Memorandum of Trans-Atlantic Telephone
Conversation
Between the Secretary of State and Sir John Simon in London, February 15: Discussion of joint or concurrent action by Great Britain and United States in the issuance of a declaration upholding the principles of the Nine-Power Treaty and the Kellogg Pact, and possibility of similar action by the League under article X; proposal also for joint protest by the four interested powers against use of Settlement as a military base. |
335 |
| Feb. 15 (56) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Information that Chapei and Woosung sectors remain quiet but that major Japanese drive is expected within a few days. |
340 |
| Undated |
Memorandum of Trans-Atlantic Telephone
Conversation
Between the Secretary of State and Sir John Simon in London, February 15: Probability that British action with respect to U. S. proposed declaration upholding the Nine-Power Treaty and the Kellogg Pact will be taken in connection with action by the League; comments and suggestions regarding draft proposal. |
341 |
| Feb. 15 |
Memorandum by the Secretary of
State
Submission to French Ambassador of draft protest to Japan respecting their illegal use of the International Settlement and liability for damages, with suggestion that French Goernment make similar protest; information that similar suggestion is being made to the Italian Ambassador. |
345 |
| Feb. 15 (22) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Information that a meeting of the twelve members of the League Council, exclusive of China and Japan, will be held to discuss a strong appeal to Japan proposed by the Secretary General. |
346 |
| Feb. 15 (55) |
To the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
Request for explanation of view that situation in Far East will best be served at present by a quiescent attitude of the various foreign governments toward Japan. |
346 |
| Feb. 15 (56) |
To the Ambassador in Japan
(tel.)
Memorandum for Japanese Government (text printed) protesting against the use of the International Settlement as a base, and notifying the Japanese Government that it will be held responsible for loss or damage by its armed forces to American lives and property; instructions to deliver simultaneously with similar British memorandum. |
346 |
| Feb. 15 (62) |
To the Chargé in Great Britain
(tel.)
Instructions to inform Sir John Simon of text of memorandum of protest to the Japanese Government (supra) and arrangements for its delivery. |
347 |
| Undated |
Memorandum by the Secretary of
State
Trans-Atlantic telephone conversation between the Secretary of State and the Chargé in Great Britain, February 15, regarding importance of British signature of Nine-Power declaration, regardless of action under the League. |
348 |
| Feb. 15 |
Memorandum by the Minister in China of a
Conversation With Dr. V. K. Wellington
Koo
Communication to Dr. Koo of results of a conversation with the Japanese Minister to China as to possibility of a meeting to end hostilities; Koo’s intimation that Japanese proposal would be unacceptable to the Chinese. |
349 |
| Feb. 16 (67) |
From the Chargé in Great Britain
(tel.)
Reply to Department’s telegram No. 62, February 15, advising of British plans for presentation of memorandum similar to American memorandum. |
350 |
| Feb. 16 (235) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Harbin: Press reports that Chinese provincial heads of Japanese-sponsored governments will meet at Changchun on February 21 to discuss a general Manchurian and Mongolian government, which may be proclaimed the following day. |
350 |
| Feb. 16 (23) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Memorandum of private meeting of twelve Council members to consider an appeal to Japan to desist from military action at Shanghai. |
351 |
| Feb. 16 (52) |
From the Consul General at Nanking
(tel.)
Arrangements for evacuation of Americans through port of Chinkiang in view of possible disturbance to Shanghai-Nanking Railway zone. |
352 |
| Undated |
Memorandum of Trans-Atlantic Telephone
Conversation
Between the Secretary of State and the Chargé in Great Britain, February 16: Information that British Government now deems it inexpedient to present memorandum to Tokyo as indicated in Chargé’s telegram No. 67 of February 16; substance of final paragraph of League appeal, and suggestions of Sir John Simon on draft Nine-Power declaration. |
352 |
| Feb. 16 (16) |
To the Minister in Switzerland, at Geneva
(tel.)
Informal memorandum for Drummond summarizing events at Shanghai on January 20 and 28, and outlining subsequent efforts at conciliation. |
356 |
| Feb. 16 |
Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State of a
Conversation With the French Ambassador
Advice to French Ambassador that British Government has decided not to make further protest to Japan concerning use of International Settlement as base of military operations. |
359 |
| Feb. 16 |
Memorandum by the Under Secretary of
State
Advice to Italian Ambassador of British Government’s decision not to make further protest to Japan concerning International Settlement. |
359 |
| Feb. 16 |
Memorandum by the Under Secretary of
State
Discussion with British Ambassador of contemplated action in Far Eastern situation. |
360 |
| Feb. 16 (69) |
From the Chargé in Great Britain
(tel.)
Observations by Sir John Simon on the draft declaration upholding Nine-Power Treaty. |
360 |
| Feb. 16 (24) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Information that the Council’s appeal to Japan has been approved and delivered to the Japanese representative. |
362 |
| Feb. 16 (70) |
From the Chargé in Great Britain
(tel.)
Explanation of change in British attitude. |
362 |
| Feb. 16 (25) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Text of the League Council’s appeal to Japan. |
363 |
| Feb. 16 (70) |
From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
Reasons for recommendation that foreign governments observe patient attitude toward Japan. |
364 |
Chapter V: February 17–29, 1932
| Date and number | Subject | Page |
| 1932 Feb. 17 (84) |
From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Message from Japanese Government (text printed), circulated to League Council members, advising that bombardment of flood relief refugee camp was a deplorable mistake. |
366 |
| Feb. 17 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Quotation from a letter from the Japanese Minister regarding landing of part of Japanese troops in Settlement area. |
366 |
| Feb. 17 (238) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Mukden, February 16: Press reports that conference regarding declaration of the new state will open February 17 or 18. |
367 |
| Feb. 17 (64) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Wounding of two British naval guards by shells falling inside the Settlement; unconfirmed rumors of Chinese-Japanese negotiations for cessation of hostilities. |
367 |
| Feb. 17 (72) |
From the Ambassador in Japan
(tel.)
Information that Foreign Office has published gist of a telegram from the Japanese Ambassador in Washington regarding a conversation with the Secretary of State, which contains purport of Department’s telegram No. 56, of February 15; that British Ambassador has had no instructions in the matter, and that the French Ambassador has made an oral protest. |
370 |
| Feb. 17 (27) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Consideration by League Council members of a Japanese memorandum on question of China’s legal right to summon the Assembly. |
370 |
| Feb. 17 (65) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Expectation that a Japanese ultimatum requiring immediate cessation of hostilities and withdrawal of Chinese forces will be delivered tonight. |
371 |
| Feb. 17 |
From the Under Secretary of State to the Secretary
of State
Information from French Embassy that independent verbal protest has been made by French Ambassador in Tokyo against use of International Settlement as a base; inquiry as to further instructions to be sent to American Ambassador in Tokyo in the matter. |
371 |
| Feb. 17 |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Arrangements through British Minister for meeting between Chinese and Japanese military at which Japanese will explain terms under which they will agree not to push hostilities further. |
372 |
| Undated |
Memorandum by the Secretary of State of a
Trans-Atlantic Telephone Conversation With the Chargé in Great
Britain on February 18, 1982
Information to the Chargé that a revised draft of the Nine-Power Treaty proposal, conforming to suggestions by Sir John Simon, is being sent, to be held until situation makes use of it advisable. |
373 |
| Feb. 18 |
Memorandum by the Secretary of
State
Conversation with the French Ambassador, who agreed with the Secretary’s opinion that U. S. protest to Japan should not be sent for the present. |
373 |
| Feb. 18 |
Memorandum by the Secretary of
State
Explanation, in conversation with the Italian Ambassador, for withholding of protest to Japan. |
375 |
| Feb. 18 |
Memorandum by the Secretary of
State
Conversation with the German Ambassador regarding the Far East situation and the Nine-Power Treaty, which Germany has not yet ratified. |
375 |
| Feb. 18 (242) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Nanking, February 16: Belief that Chinese Government is preparing for hostilities with Japan at Shanghai and Nanking. |
376 |
| Feb. 18 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Breakdown of conference between Chinese and Japanese because of unacceptability of Japanese proposals. |
377 |
| Feb. 18 (72) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Report on military situation; investigation of damage to property of an American citizen; communist demonstrations. |
378 |
| Feb. 18 (246) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Mayer: Attitudes of Chinese and Japanese military leaders. |
380 |
| Feb. 18 (73) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Letter from consular body (text printed) regarding maintenance of trade and shipping at port of Shanghai, to be sent, mutatis mutandis, to the Japanese Consul General and the Mayor of Shanghai. |
380 |
| Feb. 18 |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Conversation with Wellington Koo regarding breakdown of conference and probable renewal of hostilities; warning as to consequent danger to Americans residing in Hongkew section. |
381 |
| Feb. 18 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Terms of Japanese ultimatum delivered to Chinese commander and referred to Government at Nanking. |
382 |
| Feb. 18 (70) |
To the Chargé in Great Britain
(tel.)
Revised draft of Nine-Power Treaty proposal (text printed) and reasons for desiring British cooperation; instructions to hold for delivery at some future time. |
383 |
| Feb. 18 (34) |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Instructions for guidance in matters concerning administration of the International Settlement, particularly the question of Japanese interference with municipal functions. |
386 |
| Feb. 19 (248) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Mukden, February 17: Belief that Japanese desire the immediate establishment of the new state in Manchuria because of the impending visit of the League Commission and conditions at Shanghai. |
386 |
| Feb. 19 (249) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Mukden, February 17: Formation of temporary council for organization of new state; February 18; issuance of declaration of independence of four northeastern provinces and severance of relations with Nanking Government. |
387 |
| Feb. 19 (75) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Receipt of information from Japanese general that Japanese ultimatum was sent to Chinese military commander on night of February 18. |
388 |
| Feb. 19 (75) |
From the Chargé in Great Britain
(tel.)
Substance of statement before Parliament on February 18 by Lord Hailsham outlining British policy in the Far East. |
388 |
| Feb. 19 (76) |
From the Chargé in Great Britain
(tel.)
Suggestion for consultation with British Ambassador in Washington regarding correctness of interpretation of British policy in the Far East. |
391 |
| Feb. 19 (29) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Information reported by French delegation that American Minister in China has instructions not to cooperate at Shanghai in efforts to arrange an armistice; request for facts. |
392 |
| Feb. 19 (76) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Japanese reply of February 16 (excerpt printed) expressing regret for incident referred to in consular body’s protest against military flights over Settlement. |
392 |
| Feb. 19 |
From the Minister, in China
(tel.)
Arrangement with British, French, and Italian colleagues for making oral representations to Chinese military, Mayor of Shanghai, and Japanese Minister regarding danger to life and property in Hongkew area from military activities; suggestion that similar representations be made at Tokyo. |
393 |
| Feb. 19 (30) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Information that League Assembly will be called in response to Chinese request for transfer of jurisdiction. |
394 |
| Feb. 19 (78) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Japanese reply of February 17 (text printed) to consular body’s letter of February 8 regarding military flights over Settlement; comment that letter is not as satisfactory as previous oral assurance. |
395 |
| Feb. 19 (80) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Information that Americans in Yangtzepoo and Hongkew areas have been advised to seek places of greater safety immediately in view of possibility of renewed hostilities on a large scale. (Footnote: Department’s approval of action taken.) |
395 |
| Feb. 19 |
From the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs at
Nanking to the Chinese Legation
Advice that the intolerable demands of the Japanese ultimatum leave no hope of peace; request for action by U. S. Government. |
396 |
| Feb. 19 |
Memorandum by Mr. Ransford S. Miller of the Division
of Far Eastern Affairs of a Conversation With the First Secretary of
the Chinese Legation
Assurance given to Mr. Kung that everything possible is being done at Shanghai to effect a peaceful settlement. |
396 |
| Feb. 19 (17) |
To the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Understanding that American Minister in China is cooperating in efforts at Shanghai; instructions so to inform French inquirers and any others. |
397 |
| Feb. 19 (36) |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
For the Minister and the Consul General: Approval of warning to Americans in Hongkew area; request for information as to general evacuation plans under consideration. |
397 |
| Feb. 19 (77) |
From the Chargé in Great Britain
(tel.)
Information that Foreign Office has approved action of British Minister at Shanghai in joining in representations to Chinese and Japanese regarding responsibility for damage caused by military operations. |
398 |
| Feb. 19 (81) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Expectation of Chinese refusal of ultimatum, which expires at sunset on January 20; Chinese warning to foreign nationals to evacuate danger zones to avoid danger from Chinese return fire. |
398 |
| Feb. 19 (82) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Official text of Japanese ultimatum delivered to General Tsai Ting-kai on February 18; information that similar note with addendum (text printed) was sent to Mayor of Shanghai requesting suppression of anti-Japanese movements, as previously promised. |
399 |
| Feb. 19 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Joint protest by representatives of neutrals against Chinese artillery fire into Yangtzepoo; Chinese commander’s inquiry as to whether neutral powers would prevent Japanese from using neutral defense areas. |
400 |
| Feb. 19 (83) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Replies (texts printed) of Mayor to Japanese Consul General and of General Tsai to General Uyeda advising that their letters of February 18 have been submitted to the Chinese Government for consideration. |
401 |
| Feb. 19 (31) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Private meeting of twelve Council members concerning convocation of the Assembly, at which suggestion was made that U. S. Government be formally invited to act with the League. |
402 |
| Feb. 19 (86) |
From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Appeal by the League Council to Japan to extend time limit of ultimatum and their hope for similar appeal by the United States; adoption of resolution convoking Assembly to meet March 3. |
402 |
| Feb. 19 (8126) |
From the Consul General at
Shanghai
Submission of a proposal for the settlement of all questions relative to the administration of the port of Shanghai. |
403 |
| Feb. 20 (84) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Opinion that Japanese military offensive is inevitable; hope that Settlement will not be seriously affected other than Hongkew and Yangtzepoo districts, which Japanese are using for military bases. |
405 |
| Feb. 20 |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Commencement of Japanese attack at 7:30 a.m.; attempts at last minute settlement. |
406 |
| Feb. 20 (18) |
To the Minister in Switzerland, at Geneva
(tel.)
Suggestion for counteraction against false or misleading reports on American attitude and action on Far Eastern questions which may arise in Geneva. |
406 |
| Feb. 20 (90) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Letter dated February 20 (text printed) from the Senior Consul to the Japanese Consul General regarding landing of Japanese forces in Settlement. |
407 |
| Feb. 20 (19) |
To the Minister in Switzerland, at Geneva
(tel.)
Information on revised draft of Nine-Power Treaty declaration and instructions concerning it which have been sent to Embassy in London. |
408 |
| Feb. 20 (40) |
To the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Indication that U. S. appeal for extension of ultimatum would be useless, in view of fact that hostilities have already begun. |
408 |
| Feb. 20 (43) |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Instructions to continue cooperation with League Shanghai Committee in preparing report on present events. |
409 |
| Feb. 20 (257) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Mukden, February 19: Comments on Japanese plans in Manchuria. |
409 |
| Feb. 20 (91) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Japanese military tactics against Chapei; warnings to managers of Japanese mills against use of signal flares within American lines. |
410 |
| Feb. 21 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Advice that there has been full cooperation with French and British colleagues. |
411 |
| Feb. 21 |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Information that Japanese appear to have made little or no advance; indication that they would be glad to withdraw from Shanghai if a way could be found to do so with honor. |
412 |
| Feb. 21 (93) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Report on evacuation plans. |
412 |
| Feb. 21 (94) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Information that consular body’s protest of February 20 was proposed by French Consul General. |
413 |
| Feb. 21 (95) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Continuance of Japanese drive against Kiangwan Village. |
414 |
| Feb. 22 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Report of Japanese violations of neutrality in American sector of International Settlement. |
414 |
| Feb. 22 |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Conversation with Wellington Koo, who inquired as to chances of China’s obtaining financial or material support from Government or private sources in the United States. |
415 |
| Feb. 22 (261) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Mukden, February 20: Japanese press reports that inauguration of the new state will take place at Changchun on March 1. |
415 |
| Feb. 22 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Request for representations at Tokyo against further landing of Japanese reinforcements inside Settlement. |
416 |
| Feb. 22 (96) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Letter from Senior Consul to Mayor of Shanghai, February 18 (text printed), urging that military forces refrain from firing which endangers the Settlement. |
416 |
| Feb. 22 (97) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Continuance of Japanese drive past Kiangwan, which is still in hands of the Chinese; advice that port congestion continues. |
417 |
| Feb. 23 |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Conviction that neither Chinese nor Japanese will accept further mediation; request for instructions whether to remain in Shanghai. |
417 |
| Feb. 23 (99) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Précis of third report of League Shanghai Committee. |
418 |
| Feb. 23 (262) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Mukden, February 22: Information on Japanese plans for establishing the new state as a republic and later changing it into a monarchy. |
419 |
| Feb. 23 (100) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Request for approval of “responsibility for damages” clause (text printed) to be included in communications on this subject to Chinese and Japanese authorities. |
419 |
| Feb. 23 (74) |
From the Ambassador in Japan
(tel.)
Japanese Cabinet decision to send another division to Shanghai; opinion that Japanese desire to end Shanghai situation as soon as possible. |
420 |
| Feb. 23 (101) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Indication that Japanese offensive has come to a halt as General Uyeda does not want to sacrifice too many troops. |
420 |
| Feb. 23 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Request for representations to Japanese Government to remove their ships from the vicinity of the International Settlement and to cease using the Settlement as a base of operations; information that similar request is being made by British and French Ministers and Italian Chargé to their Governments. |
422 |
| Feb. 23 |
From the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs at
Nanking to the Chinese Legation
Declaration by the Chinese Government that it will not recognize the independence of Manchuria. |
422 |
| Feb. 24 (34) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Inquiry as to whether to notify League Council in event of action on the revised Nine-Power Treaty proposal. |
424 |
| Feb. 24 (265) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Peiping: Request for instructions regarding inquiry from American Consul General at Harbin as to whether an attempt should be made to secure American representation in any new Municipal Council formed. |
424 |
| Feb. 24 (266) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Peiping: Report from Harbin of Japanese contention that Japanese and Koreans in vicinity of eastern section of Chinese Eastern Railway are in need of military protection. |
425 |
| Feb. 24 (35) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Japanese representatives’ expression of concern over Shanghai situation and intention to recommend to their Government that it take action under the Nine-Power Treaty to reestablish cooperation with western powers and to restore peace. |
425 |
| Feb. 24 (36) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Addendum to telegram No. 35. |
426 |
| Feb. 24 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Intention to return to Nanking on February 26 unless Department desires otherwise. |
426 |
| Feb. 24 (49) |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
For the Minister: Approval of proposed departure if, after consideration of situation, Minister feels he would be more useful at Nanking than at Shanghai. |
427 |
| Feb. 24 |
Memorandum by the Secretary of
State
Conversation with the French Ambassador in which he denied reports of a French understanding with Japan in Far East situation. |
428 |
| Feb. 24 (21) |
To the Minister in Switzerland, at Geneva
(tel.)
Transmittal of text of a letter to Senator Borah regarding the Nine-Power Treaty, with instructions to show it to Drummond for the purpose mentioned in Minister’s telegram No. 34, February 24. |
429 |
| Feb. 24 (103) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Halt of Japanese offensive. |
429 |
| Feb. 24 (37) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Problems arising from convocation of the League Assembly, especially question of inviting United States and Russia to participate; request for confirmation of understanding that Congressional approval is necessary for imposition of an arms embargo against Japan. |
430 |
| Undated |
Memorandum of Trans-Atlantic Telephone
Conversation
Between the Secretary of State and Sir John Simon, February 24: Agreement on cooperation between British and American Ambassadors in Tokyo in sending of memorandum to Japanese Government on removal of ships downriver from British and American Sectors and protesting against landing of further reinforcements within the Settlement. |
432 |
| Feb. 24 (51) |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
For the Minister: Information that Ambassador in Tokyo is being instructed to cooperate with British, French, and Italian colleagues in further representations to Japanese Government regarding safety of Settlement. |
436 |
| Feb. 24 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Foreign Office note of February 22 (text printed) reporting Japanese aerial demonstration over port of Soochow and disclaiming any responsibility of Chinese Government for losses to foreign lives and property resulting from extension of area of hostilities. |
437 |
| Feb. 24 (106) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Letter from Mayor of Shanghai (text printed) reiterating that Chinese Government will not be responsible for damage resulting from Japanese violation of Settlement neutrality and advising evacuation of American nationals and vessels from dangerous areas. |
437 |
| Feb. 24 |
Memorandum by the Minister in
China
Conversation regarding Shanghai situation with Dr. Wellington Koo, who inquired as to probability that United States would cooperate with League in imposing economic sanctions against Japan. |
438 |
| Feb. 25 (272) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Harbin, February 24: Favorable attitude of Mongol leaders toward an independent Manchurian government. |
439 |
| Feb. 25 |
Memorandum by the Secretary of
State
Discussion with British Ambassador concerning motive for the letter to Senator Borah. |
440 |
| Feb. 25 |
Memorandum by the Secretary of
State
Discussion with British Ambassador regarding possible action by the League in Sino-Japanese controversy. |
441 |
| Feb. 25 |
Memorandum by the Secretary of State
Advice from the German Ambassador of necessity for delay in bringing question of ratification of Nine-Power Treaty before the German Parliament. |
442 |
| Feb. 25 (111) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Holdup in Japanese drive until arrival of reinforcements; comparison of losses among Chinese and Japanese forces. |
443 |
| Feb. 25 (68) |
To the Minister in China (tel.)
Request for further information before issuing instructions for Consul General at Harbin in matter of American participation in reorganization of municipal government; factors to be considered. |
445 |
| Feb. 26 (112) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Information regarding coordination of efforts of various national and municipal evacuation committees. |
446 |
| Feb. 26 (78) |
From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
Report of excitement prevailing among Japanese people; belief that change of government, with military premier, is imminent. |
447 |
| Feb. 26 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Mayer for War Department: Expectation of arrival of Japanese reinforcements; report of Japanese intention not to push beyond 20-kilometer zone. |
447 |
| Feb. 26 (38) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Unofficial exchange of views between Davis and Matsudaira regarding possible action for an armistice and peace settlement at Shanghai and Japanese desire to settle Manchurian question without intervention of other powers. |
448 |
| Feb. 26 (39) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Widespread interest caused by the letter to Senator Borah; probability that United States will not be invited to participate in Assembly; interest among League members in the campaign in the United States for an economic boycott against Japan. |
449 |
| Feb. 26 (113) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Reported intention of Chinese Government to wage offensive campaign. |
450 |
| Feb. 26 (80) |
From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
Advice that a memorandum regarding Japan’s use of the International Settlement has been left with the Foreign Minister in accordance with instructions, and that British, French, and Italian colleagues are each calling individually in regard to the matter. |
450 |
| Feb. 26 (114) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Letter from Japanese Consulate General, February 24 (text printed), referring to the death of an American airman apparently fighting on the Chinese side; intention, after investigation of facts, to reply, giving position of U. S. Government as contained in section 4090 of the United States Revised Statutes. |
451 |
| Feb. 26 (81) |
From the Ambassador in Japan
(tel.)
Conversation with Foreign Minister on plan for an independent Manchurian government. |
452 |
| Feb. 26 (23) |
To the Minister in Switzerland, at Geneva
(tel.)
Confirmation of Minister’s understanding that there is no U. S. arms embargo legislation against Japan; views on questions of U. S. participation in Assembly and of use of economic boycott. |
452 |
| Feb. 27 (279) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Harbin, February 25: Soviet refusal of Japanese request to transport troops over eastern line of Chinese Eastern Railway for the alleged purpose of protecting Japanese lives and property. |
454 |
| Feb. 27 (121) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Comments by Chinese leaders on the Secretary’s letter to Senator Borah. |
454 |
| Feb. 27 (122) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Replies from Japanese Consul General and Mayor of Shanghai (excerpts printed) to Senior Consul’s letter of February 18 concerning maintenance of trade and shipping in port of Shanghai. |
455 |
| Feb. 27 (123) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Japanese air reconnaissance and bombings. |
456 |
| Feb. 27 (40) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Drummond’s opposition to proposals for U. S. participation in Assembly and for use of economic sanctions against Japan. |
456 |
| Feb. 27 (83) |
From the Ambassador in Japan (tel.)
Adverse effect of publication of letter to Senator Borah upon Japanese public opinion; readvocation of waiting policy toward Japan. |
457 |
| Undated |
Memorandum of Trans-Atlantic Telephone
Conversation
Between the Secretary of State and Wilson, February 27: Substance of new proposal by Sir John Simon for extension of good offices in Shanghai situation; Secretary’s agreement, upon certain conditions. |
458 |
| Feb. 27 (41) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Additional suggestion by Sir John Simon that League Council be associated in the step to reestablish peace at Shanghai. |
462 |
| Feb. 28 (283) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Mukden, February 27: Information that Pu-yi will be installed as Provisional Executive of the new state on February 29, at which time declaration of independence from China will be issued and transmitted to foreign governments. |
463 |
| Feb. 28 (124) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Evidence that both sides are weary of hostilities, and that there is hope for mutual agreement for evacuation and withdrawal. |
464 |
| Undated |
Memorandum of Trans-Atlantic Telephone
Conversation
Between the Secretary of State and Wilson, February 28: Secretary’s suggestions regarding three points in Simon’s proposal; text of draft letter to be presented to Drummond giving assurance of American cooperation. |
465 |
| Feb. 28 (24) |
To the Minister in Switzerland, at Geneva
(tel.)
Repetition of points mentioned in trans-Atlantic telephone conversation, and instructions to proceed provided amendments are accepted. |
471 |
| Feb. 28 (42) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
League Council’s draft proposal for restoration of peace at Shanghai (text printed), consisting of: (1) immediate cessation of hostilities by arrangements between military and other authorities in Shanghai; (2) a conference to be held at Shanghai among representatives of China, Japan, and the other interested powers to bring about a final settlement. Information that proposal will be handed to the Japanese and Chinese representatives at Council meeting, February 29. |
472 |
| Feb. 29 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Report of Japanese suggestion for conference with Chinese on basis of mutual withdrawal and also for a round-table discussion of all powers regarding the future of Shanghai; unconfirmed report of meeting between Matsuoka and Wellington Koo aboard British vessel. |
473 |
| Feb. 29 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Account of meeting of Chinese and Japanese representatives and neutral observers on British ship. |
474 |
| Feb. 29 (45) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Suggested alteration in phraseology of Council’s proposal, to include reference to negotiations now proceeding in Shanghai. |
475 |
| Undated |
Memorandum of Trans-Atlantic Telephone
Conversation
Between the Secretary of State and Wilson, February 29: Discussion of changes in Council’s proposal and in Secretary’s letter to Drummond; receipt of information by Chinese representative that his Government has agreed to the terms of an armistice. |
475 |
| Feb. 29 (60) |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
For the Minister: Information that authorization, with certain stipulations, has been given for U. S. association with League Council’s plan regarding Shanghai situation; instructions to keep Department informed of developments. |
477 |
| Feb. 29 (61) |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Instructions as to nature of information to be obtained in respect to damages suffered by American nationals. |
478 |
| Feb. 29 (131) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Japanese occupation of Kiangwan Village. |
478 |
| Feb. 29 (92) |
From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Acceptance by Council and transmittal to Chinese and Japanese Governments of proposal for peaceful settlement of the Shanghai conflict; texts of proposal and of statement by Sir John Simon conveying assurance of cooperation by United States. |
479 |
Chapter VI: March 1–12, 1932
| Date and number | Subject | Page |
| 1932 Mar. 1 (287) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Harbin, February 29: Information that Chinese Eastern Railway has received authorization from Moscow for transportation of Japanese troops to Imienpo and Hailin. |
482 |
| Mar. 1 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Chinese proposal for evacuation of Chinese and Japanese forces transmitted to Admiral Nomura by British commander. |
483 |
| Mar. 1 (133) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Letter of February 29 from the Japanese Consul General to the Mayor of Shanghai, indicating Japanese intention of destroying, in self-defense, railroad lines used in transporting Chinese troops to Shanghai, and Mayor’s reply (texts printed). |
483 |
| Mar. 1 (47) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Discussion at meeting of twelve Council members regarding possible amendments in text of resolution to obtain more formal assurances of cessation of hostilities, and objection by Simon on ground that United States had accepted the original text. |
484 |
| Mar. 1 |
From the Consul General at Tientsin
(tel.)
Landing of large quantity of Japanese war material at Tangku. |
486 |
| Mar. 1 (293) |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Probability that action of Chinese Government toward independence movement in Manchuria will be limited to a manifesto, and that no military action will be taken at present. |
486 |
| Mar. 1 (138) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Continued military activity; report of landing of Japanese reinforcements. |
487 |
| Mar. 1 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Proposal, reported by British Minister as originating in London, for round-table conference dealing with problem of Shanghai; opinion, in which British Minister concurs, that holding of such a conference would be unwise. |
488 |
| Mar. 1 (25) |
To the Minister in Switzerland, at Geneva
(tel.)
Transmittal of substance of telegram of March 1 from the Minster in China supra), and comments regarding object of proposed conference. |
489 |
| Mar. 2 (294) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Mukden, March 1: Official announcement of the establishment of the new state of “Manchoukuo.” |
490 |
| Mar. 2 (143) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Information that Chinese forces have retired to Chenju and that Chapei has been evacuated. |
490 |
| Mar. 2 |
From the Consul General at Tientsin
(tel.)
To the Legation: Information that Japanese war material recently landed at Tangku has been transported to Tientsin. |
491 |
| Mar. 2 (144) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Communication from Japanese Consul General, February 29 (text printed), regarding arrangements for protection of radio station at Chenju; intention to request Chinese cooperation. |
491 |
| Mar. 2 (145) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Information concerning withdrawal of Chinese forces. |
492 |
| Mar. 2 |
Memorandum by the Secretary of
State
Discussion with British Ambassador regarding situation at Shanghai and cooperation of the powers. |
493 |
| Mar. 2 (48) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Conversation between the Minister and Gibson and Matsudaira, who indicated that in the meeting at Shanghai, Japan had not accepted principle of mutual withdrawal but required previous withdrawal by the Chinese. |
493 |
| Mar. 3 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Text of Japanese reply to Chinese terms for immediate cessation of hostilities. |
494 |
| Mar. 3 (69) |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Approval of course of action regarding protection of radio station at Chenju. |
495 |
| Mar. 3 (76) |
To the Minister in China
(tel.)
Instructions to inform Department of receipt of notification with regard to establishment of new regime in Manchuria, but to take no further action. |
495 |
| Mar. 3 (95) |
From the Consul at Geneva
(tel.)
Communication from Japanese representative to President of League Council, March 1, advising of Japanese Government’s acceptance of League proposal of February 29; League’s acknowledgment, March 2, expressing hope for immediate cessation of hostilities (texts printed). |
496 |
| Mar. 3 (49) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Message from Sato (text printed) advising of Chinese retirement beyond 20–kilometer zone and cessation of hostilities. |
496 |
| Mar. 3 (147) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Confirmation by Japanese Consul General of cessation of hostilities. |
497 |
| Mar. 3 (299) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Harbin, March 2: Decision of Japanese military to send troops east to Imienpo because of alleged dangerous conditions there. |
497 |
| Mar. 3 (148) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Location of Chinese headquarters at Quinsan; reported capture of Woosung. |
498 |
| Mar. 3 (97) |
From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Letter of March 2 from Sato, acknowledging League’s communication of same date, and transmitting report on negotiations at Shanghai and Japanese terms for suspension of hostilities (texts printed). |
498 |
| Mar. 3 (88) |
From the Ambassador in Japan
(tel.)
Announcement by Japanese General Staff that advance of Japanese Army at Shanghai will cease after today. |
500 |
| Mar. 3 (98) |
From the Consul at Geneva
(tel.)
Communication from Chinese representative to President of League Council, March 2 (text printed), advising of Chinese Government’s acceptance of armistice at Shanghai and of League proposal of February 29 for a conference, subject to certain provisions. |
500 |
| Undated |
Memorandum of Transatlantic Telephone
Conversation
Between the Secretary of State and Wilson, March 3: Secretary’s desire that Assembly adopt policy of nonrecognition of rights acquired by force in violation of treaties; request for information as to attitude of Great Britain on the subject. |
501 |
| Mar. 3 (73) |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
For the Consul General and the Minister: Desire for views on advisability of publishing warning to American citizens who become involved in armed conflict between the two powers; instructions to make no further reply to Japanese Consul General’s letter of February 24 (quoted in telegram No. 114, February 26). |
504 |
| Mar. 4 (301) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Telegram from the Consul General at Harbin, March 1 (text printed), giving information requested in Department’s telegram No. 68, February 25; request for instructions. |
505 |
| Mar. 4 (156) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Discussion of immediate and future problems relating to Shanghai municipal administration and the International Settlement, now that hostilities have ceased. |
506 |
| Mar. 4 (51) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Assurance by Simon, Drummond, and Massigli of support of policy of nonrecognition of rights acquired by force in violation of treaties. |
508 |
| Mar. 4 (154) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Report of continued fighting between Nanziang and Quinsan, beyond the 20-kilometer limit. |
510 |
| Mar. 4 (52) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Proposal in Assembly that qualified military authorities of the principal interested powers in Shanghai, should be instructed to report immediately as to facts concerning cessation of hostilities; request to be advised whether Department will send instructions to Shanghai accordingly. |
511 |
| Undated |
Memorandum of Trans-Atlantic Telephone
Conversation
Between the Secretary of State and Wilson, March 4: Secretary’s explanation of attitude regarding proposed conference at Shanghai. |
511 |
| Mar. 4 (101) |
From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Text of resolution of League Assembly to effectuate the Council proposals of February 29 for cessation of hostilities at Shanghai. |
515 |
| Mar. 4 (53) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Transmittal of letter from Drummond (text printed) requesting American cooperation in arrangements at Shanghai for cessation of hostilities. |
516 |
| Mar. 4 (76) |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
For the Minister: Authorization and instructions for cooperation of American military authorities in making report to the League on question of facts of cessation of hostilities. |
517 |
| Mar. 4 (27) |
To the Minister in Switzerland, at Geneva
(tel.)
Instructions to inform Drummond of action taken for cooperation of American military at Shanghai. |
517 |
| Mar. 5 (306) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Mukden, March 4: Information that arrangements have been made for the return of ex-Emperor Hsuan-tung (Pu-yi), who is expected to accept invitation to resume his post, and who will then be inaugurated at Changchun on March 9. |
517 |
| Mar. 5 (54) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Suggestion made in League Assembly that Ministers of the four principally interested powers be requested to submit an agenda for the conference at Shanghai after consulting Japanese Minister and local Chinese authorities. |
518 |
| Mar. 5 (55) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Chinese representative’s request for action by U. S. Government toward securing firm attitude by League delegates on matters of principle; proposed reply. (Footnote: Department’s approval of proposed reply.) |
519 |
| Mar. 5 |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Information received from Tokyo by Italian Chargé that Japanese Government will continue consultation with interested powers and will not resume hostilities as long as Chinese forces do not come within 20-kilometer zone. |
519 |
| Mar. 5 (28) |
To the Minister in Switzerland, at Geneva
(tel.)
Opinion that Nanking Government, rather than local Chinese authorities, should be consulted regarding agenda for Shanghai conference. |
519 |
| Mar. 6 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Data from military authorities concerning cessation of hostilities. |
520 |
| Mar. 6 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Substance of Chinese views on Japanese terms of March 2 for cessation of hostilities (quoted in telegram No. 97, March 3, from Geneva). |
520 |
| Mar. 6 (56) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Request for Department’s approval of suggestion for agenda, provided consultation is with Nanking authorities. |
521 |
| Mar. 6 (309) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Harbin, March 5: Information that Japanese troops have detrained at Hailin; Japanese press claims that Soviet approval of the appointment of Li Shao-ken as president of the Chinese Eastern Railway indicates intention to recognize the new government. |
521 |
| Mar. 6 (30) |
To the Minister in Switzerland, at Geneva
(tel.)
Instructions with regard to proposed agenda, and stipulation that highest national Chinese authorities are to be consulted. |
522 |
| Mar. 6 (57) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Opinion that it would be more advantageous to have agenda drawn up in Shanghai. |
522 |
| Mar. 7 (58) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Agreement of Yen and Olds with U. S. views regarding conference at Shanghai, and probability that American representatives will be asked to put these forward in conversations with representatives of other states. |
523 |
| Mar. 7 (161) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Concurrence in fourth report of League Inquiry Committee (excerpt printed). |
523 |
| Mar. 7 (106) |
From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Speech by Sir John Simon before League Assembly (excerpt printed) upholding principle of nonrecognition of changes brought about in violation of Covenant and treaties. |
524 |
| Mar. 7 (33) |
To the Minister in Switzerland, at Geneva
(tel.)
View that agenda should be worked out at Shanghai but strictly within the scope of the Assembly’s resolution; information that American Minister in China has been authorized to participate on that basis. |
525 |
| Mar. 7 |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Information that French and Italian colleagues have been authorized to participate in a conference but have no detailed instructions, and that British Minister has received no instructions; Japanese suggestions for policing of areas evacuated by Japanese troops. |
526 |
| Mar. 7 (61) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Résumé of March 7 meeting of the League Assembly, at which various representatives spoke in general terms. |
528 |
| Mar. 7 (80) |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
For the Minister: Request for information as to action taken by military authorities in connection with report requested by the League. |
528 |
| Mar. 8 (312) |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Communications from Consul at Harbin and Consul General at Mukden (texts printed) regarding invitations to attend functions incident to formation of new government on March 9, and intention of Consul General at Mukden not to attend. |
529 |
| Mar. 8 (80) |
To the Minister in China (tel.)
Information that Consul General at Harbin has been instructed not to attend celebration; instructions to inform Consul General at Mukden of Department’s approval of his attitude. |
529 |
| Mar. 8 (35) |
To the Minister in Switzerland, at Geneva
(tel.)
Instructions for caution in conversations with representatives of other states. |
530 |
| Mar. 8 |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Information that arrangements have been made with British, French, and Italian colleagues to forward joint daily reports, serially numbered, to Geneva on the military situation; inquiry whether Department desires repetition of these reports. (Footnote: Information that Department requested repetition of reports.) |
530 |
| Mar. 8 (313) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Chinese news agency report of March 6 (text printed) of meeting of Central Political Council, at which General Chiang Kai-shek was elected chairman of the Military Council. |
531 |
| Mar. 8 |
Memorandum by the Secretary of State
Advice to Chinese Chargé that American Minister in China has been instructed to attend conference at Shanghai in accordance with League Assembly resolution of March 4. |
531 |
| Mar. 8 (64) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Conclusion of general discussions by Assembly and establishment of a drafting committee. |
532 |
| Mar. 8 (82) |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
For the Minister: Views on Shanghai situation; necessity for limiting immediate conference to settlement of military situation, and probability of a subsequent conference of larger scope. |
533 |
| Mar. 8 (108) |
From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Substance of statements by Yen and Sato before the Assembly. |
535 |
| Mar. 9 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Nanking, March 8: Transmittal of message from Vice Minister Hsu Mo (text printed) giving consent of Chinese Government to negotiations at Shanghai as provided for in article 3 of Assembly resolution of March 4, but only on basis of reservations offered by the Chinese delegate. |
537 |
| Mar. 9 (172) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
From Mayer for War Department: Establishment by the Japanese of a patrol zone in front of Japanese outpost line. |
538 |
| Mar. 9 (317) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Reuter report from Changchun, March 8, of the arrival of ex-Emperor Hsuan-tung. |
538 |
| Mar. 9 (173) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Letters from the Mayor of Shanghai to the Japanese Consul General, and to the American Consul General (texts printed), advising of the resumption of municipal services in Woosung, Kiangwan, Chapei, and other places evacuated by Chinese troops. |
539 |
| Mar. 9 (174) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Transmittal of letter from the Chairman of the Municipal Council to the Mayor of Shanghai, March 8 (text printed) regarding the necessity of restoring public services in Chapel. |
540 |
| Mar. 9 (175) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Request by military authorities for return of the 31st Regiment to Manila; opinion of Minister and commander in chief that it could be withdrawn safely. |
541 |
| Mar. 9 (86) |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Assumption that question of withdrawal of the 31st Regiment will be brought to Department’s attention by the War Department; instructions to keep matter confidential. |
542 |
| Mar. 9 (81) |
To the Minister in China
(tel.)
Instructions for Consul General at Harbin not to participate in reorganization of Harbin municipal government. |
543 |
| Mar. 9 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Draft (text printed) of Japanese acceptance of negotiations in accordance with League resolution of March 4; British Minister’s intention to endeavor to obtain Chinese counter document. |
548 |
| Mar. 9 (67) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Circulation by Secretary General of a letter from Yen quoting telegram from the Chinese Legation in Washington to the effect that Secretary Stimson approved policing by Chinese troops of evacuated areas in Shanghai; inquiry as to whether message was authorized by the Secretary. |
545 |
| Mar. 9 (68) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Information that Sir John Simon is sending British Minister at Shanghai instructions concerning negotiations; final paragraph (text printed) of draft resolution by Assembly which contains nonrecognition clause. |
545 |
| Mar. 10 (112) |
From the Consul at Geneva
(tel.)
Circulation by Secretary General of a document from the Japanese delegation advising that Japanese Government is ready to withdraw Japanese forces in Shanghai from their present position as soon as satisfactory arrangements can be made, but that the Chinese are delaying negotiations and engaging in propaganda against the Japanese. |
546 |
| Mar. 10 (320) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Harbin, March 9: Nonacceptance of written invitation to attend inauguration ceremonies at Changchun; information that consular colleagues, except Japanese, have adopted same attitude. |
547 |
| Mar. 10 (40) |
To the Minister in Switzerland, at Geneva
(tel.)
Information that Dr. Yen’s letter to the Secretary General, reported in telegram No. 67 of March 9, was unauthorized and inaccurate. |
548 |
| Mar. 10 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Receipt by British Minister of Chinese document (text printed), indicating readiness to begin negotiations on basis of the League resolution and limitations imposed by the Chinese delegate. |
548 |
| Mar. 10 (324) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Harbin, March 9: Inquiry as to propriety of transmitting information between local authorities and National City Bank to assist Bank in establishing legal status of newly appointed manager of Northeastern Steamship Company. Legation’s intention to approve transmittal. (Footnote: Department’s nonapproval of action suggested.) |
549 |
| Mar. 10 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Joint report No. 1 (text printed) for the League on military situation. |
550 |
| Mar. 10 |
Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Far
Eastern Affairs of a Conversation With the Chinese
Chargé
Chargé’s expression of regret for unauthorized circulation at Geneva of report of his conversation with the Secretary, and submission of telegram of explanation from Dr. Yen, (infra). |
550 |
| Mar. 10 |
Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Far
Eastern Affairs
Telegram from Dr. Yen, at Geneva (text printed), submitted by the Chinese Chargé, explaining motive for making public substance of Secretary’s talk with Chargé. |
552 |
| Mar. 10 |
Memorandum by the Secretary of
State
Conversation with French Ambassador on Sino-Japanese situation and Japanese aims in China. |
552 |
| Mar. 10 (42) |
To the Minister in Switzerland, at Geneva
(tel.)
Information, in case of inquiry, that there is no intention of withdrawing U. S. 31st Infantry from Shanghai. |
553 |
| Mar. 10 (70) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Discussion as to possibility of inclusion of reference to Kellogg Pact in the Assembly resolution. |
554 |
| Mar. 10 (520) |
From the Ambassador in Japan
Comments on Soviet-Japanese relations as affected by the disturbances in Manchuria. |
554 |
| Mar. 11 (113) |
From the Consul at Geneva
(tel.)
Circulation by Secretary General of communication from the Chinese delegation (text printed), transmitting information from Chinese Government relative to the taking over by the Northeast Administrative Committee of the customs in Manchuria. |
561 |
| Mar. 11 (179) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Information that the Japanese are granting facilities for necessary repair work to radio station at Chenju. |
561 |
| Mar. 11 (88) |
To the Chargé in Great Britain
(tel.)
Instructions to ascertain whether Great Britain would be willing, in event of attempts to establish an independent customs administration in Manchuria, to join in concurrent action in filing of objections and reservations. |
562 |
| Mar. 11 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Letter from the Japanese Minister, March 10 (text printed), to the British Minister, transmitted by him to the Chinese Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs, stating Japanese inability to enter into negotiations until receipt of assurances as to exact meaning of conditions attached to Chinese acceptance. |
563 |
| Mar. 11 (71) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Information that reference to Kellogg Pact was inserted in the Assembly resolution. |
563 |
| Mar. 11 (328) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Mukden: Repulsion of bandit attack; report of reception at Governor’s palace in celebration of the establishment of the new state. |
564 |
| Mar. 11 (181) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Approval by consular body of action of Municipal Council in undertaking sanitation work in extra-settlement areas now in control of Japanese, with consent of both Japanese authorities and Shanghai municipal authorities. |
565 |
| Mar. 11 |
Memorandum by the Secretary of
State
Memorandum (text printed), transmitted by Italian Ambassador, giving Grandi’s views on Secretary’s letter to Senator Borah; Secretary’s reply (text printed), expressing appreciation of Foreign Minister’s views. |
566 |
| Mar. 11 (72) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Recommendation as to expediency of expressing recognition of Sir John Simon’s efforts to harmonize his action in League Assembly with U. S. views. |
567 |
| Mar. 11 (73) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Letter from Drummond (text printed) transmitting text of resolution relative to the Sino-Japanese dispute adopted by the Assembly, and drawing attention to the request in part II addressed to powers having special interests in the Shanghai Settlement. |
568 |
| Undated |
Memorandum of Trans-Atlantic Telephone
Conversation
Between the Secretary of State and Wilson, March 11: Secretary’s instructions for verbal assurances of U. S. cooperation and gratification at Assembly’s action, but desire for further consideration of answer to be made to Drummond’s letter. |
569 |
| Mar. 11 (92) |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
For the Minister: Belief that it is not time for withdrawal or reduction of forces at Shanghai, and instructions for handling recommendations and discussions on this subject, to be communicated also to Consul General and Commander in Chief. |
572 |
| Mar. 11 (44) |
To the Minister in Switzerland, at Geneva
(tel.)
Text of statement to the press regarding Assembly resolution; instructions to inform Drummond. |
572 |
| Mar. 11 (117) |
From the Consul at Geneva
(tel.)
Consideration of the Sino-Japanese question and adoption of the Assembly resolution at meeting of the General Commission of the Assembly and at Assembly meeting. |
573 |
| Mar. 12 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Chinese reply (text printed) to Japanese Minister’s letter of March 10, clarifying expression “complete withdrawal”. |
575 |
| Mar. 12 (329) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Mukden, March 11: List of principal officials of the new government. |
576 |
| Mar. 12 (330) |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Information from Chinese general of decision of Central Executive Committee to avoid Soviet alliance, and to continue resistance to Japan. |
576 |
| Mar. 12 (107) |
From the Chargé in Great Britain
(tel.)
Information that Foreign Office is awaiting return of Sir John Simon before giving opinion with regard to suggested action on Manchurian customs situation. |
577 |
| Mar. 12 (90) |
To the Chargé in Great Britain
(tel.)
Personal letter from the Secretary for Sir John Simon (text printed) expressing appreciation for his efforts in bringing Assembly resolution in harmony with U. S. position. |
577 |
| Mar. 12 (95) |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Observations for guidance on question of American claims arising from dispute between China and Japan. |
578 |
| Mar. 12 |
From Mr. Hsieh
Chieh-shih
Communication advising of the establishment of the new state of “Manchoukuo” and requesting establishment of diplomatic relations with U. S. Government. |
579 |
Chapter VII: March 13–31, 1932
| Date and number | Subject | Page |
| 1932 Mar. 13 (182) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Summary of incidents and conditions of past week. |
580 |
| Mar. 13 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Letter from Japanese Minister to British Minister (text printed), giving view of Japanese representative at Geneva that Yen’s reservations to Assembly resolution of March 4 do not modify it in any way. |
582 |
| Mar. 14 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Military Attaché for War Department: Chinese Government’s desire to secure the services of a group of qualified Americans to organize an air school for the training of military aviators. |
582 |
| Mar. 14 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
British Minister’s reply to the Japanese Minister (excerpt printed) in connection with validity of Yen’s reservations to the Assembly’s March 4 resolution, to the effect that these reservations were apparently accepted by the Assembly. |
583 |
| Mar. 14 [15?] |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Meeting of Chinese and Japanese representatives with American, British, and French Ministers and Italian Chargé to explore possibilities of beginning negotiations under League resolution of March 4: Agreement on three-point agenda as basis for negotiations, and separate understanding desired by Japanese of reaffirmation by China of Mayor’s letter of January 28. |
583 |
| Mar. 15 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Texts of the draft agenda and separate understanding. |
584 |
| Mar. 15 (119) |
From the Consul at Geneva
(tel.)
Communication from Yen to the President of the Assembly, March 12 (text printed), advising of Chinese Government’s acceptance of Assembly resolution of March 11. |
585 |
| Mar. 15 (337) |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Publication by the Chinese Government of a declaration regarding the puppet government of Northeastern provinces (excerpt printed). |
586 |
| Mar. 16 |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Substitute paragraph (text printed) of draft agenda submitted by Japanese Minister, relating to policing of evacuated area. |
586 |
| Mar. 16 (341) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Telegrams from Consuls General at Harbin and Mukden (texts printed), indicating receipt of notification that chief executive of “Manchoukuo” formally assumed office on March 9. Instructions sent to Harbin and Mukden not to acknowledge receipt of these communications. |
587 |
| Mar. 16 (185) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Delivery by the Japanese of Chinese prisoners of war. |
588 |
| Mar. 16 (111) |
From the Chargé in Great Britain
(tel.)
Information that question of recognition of Manchurian regime is still under consideration by the Foreign Office. |
588 |
| Mar. 16 (78) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Meeting of Committee on Sino-Japanese question appointed by the Assembly, and decision that most useful thing would be to sustain action of the powers in negotiations at Shanghai. |
589 |
| Mar. 16 |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Objections to Japanese desire for policing of evacuated area by neutral troops, and inquiry as to whether U. S. Government is committed in any way to the maintenance of order in the evacuated zone. |
590 |
| Mar. 17 (346) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Harbin, March 12: Conversation with Japanese Consul General regarding Japanese action in Manchuria, and his opinion that a certain proportion of the Chinese Maritime Customs revenue could be allotted for service of foreign debts. |
591 |
| Mar. 17 |
Memorandum by the Secretary of
State
Advice, in reply to query by Italian Ambassador, that position expressed in Secretary’s note of January 7 and in the letter to Senator Borah was not intended to apply to revision of treaties by peaceful negotiations. |
591 |
| Mar. 17 |
Memorandum by the Secretary of
State
Discussion with Belgian Ambassador of reasons for decision not to recognize new Manchurian state. |
592 |
| Mar. 17 |
Memorandum by the Secretary of
State
Discussion with Belgian Ambassador of probability that doctrine enunciated in Assembly resolution will become part of international law; expression of appreciation for efforts of Mr. Hymans, Belgian representative, as President of the Assembly. |
592 |
| Mar. 17 (103) |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
For the Minister: Suggestions with regard to liquidation of military situation in Shanghai, and authorization to work out with colleagues a plan to meet the problems involved. |
593 |
| Mar. 17 |
Memorandum by the Vice Consul at
Shanghai
Transmittal of statement and report by Colonel Thomas, of the Shanghai Volunteer Corps, regarding events immediately prior to the opening of hostilities on the night of January 28; comments concerning Japanese occupation of Chapei on night of January 28, to which Vice Consul was an eyewitness. |
595 |
| Mar. 18 (350) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Views of a prominent Japanese regarding aims and interests of Japan in China. |
596 |
| Mar. 18 (352) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Mukden, March 17: Appointment of two Japanese officials to positions in government of the new state. |
597 |
| Mar. 18 (126) |
From the Consul at Geneva
(tel.)
Circulation by the Secretary General of a communication from Sato (text printed), relative to the Customs Administration at Antung. |
598 |
| Mar. 18 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Telegram from the British Minister to his Foreign Office (text printed), sent with concurrence of Lord Lytton, requesting inquiry as to whether the League would approve the Lytton Commission’s remaining in Shanghai for a while in order to assist in local negotiations. |
598 |
| Mar. 18 (354) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Harbin, March 17: Intention to file without acknowledgment a letter received from Foreign Minister of the new state of Manchuria; report on Soviet-Japanese relations. |
599 |
| Mar. 18 (106) |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
For the Minister: Opinion that it would be inadvisable for Lytton Commission to delay at Shanghai, and instructions, if Minister concurs, to point out certain aspects of the matter confidentially to General McCoy. |
600 |
| Mar. 18 (88) |
To the Minister in China
(tel.)
Instructions for Consul General at Mukden regarding presentation of American claims arising from Japanese military activities in Manchuria. |
601 |
| Mar. 18 (557) |
From the Consul General at Mukden to the Minister in
China
Report on the government of the new state of “Manchoukuo,” indicating that it has become in fact a dependency of Japan. |
602 |
| Mar. 19 |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Embarkation of Japanese troops; Chinese protests against Japanese aircraft flights beyond patrol zone. |
603 |
| Mar. 19 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Further discussion of draft agenda for the negotiations at Shanghai; Chinese proposal to bring in specially trained police for policing of areas around Settlement. |
604 |
| Mar. 19 (110) |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
For the Minister: Draft project (outline printed), prepared by Department officials, regarding problems of Japanese withdrawal and regulation of situation afterward, and other information for guidance in working out solution of Shanghai situation. |
605 |
| Mar. 19 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Draft agenda (text printed) accepted ad referendum by both Chinese and Japanese. |
609 |
| Mar. 19 (8171) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
Facts concerning mistreatment of a Chinese pastor of a Christian church by Japanese marines on January 29. |
611 |
| Mar. 20 |
Memorandum by the Minister in China of a
Conversation With the Chinese Vice Minister for Foreign
Affairs
Attitude of Mr. Quo that an agreement must contain terms calling specifically for the withdrawal of Japanese troops in accordance with League resolution of March 4. |
613 |
| Mar. 21 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Receipt of information through Military Attaché that the Japanese will request to hold a line which will give depth to the area held by Japanese troops. |
614 |
| Mar. 21 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Meeting of Chinese and Japanese representatives in presence of neutrals, and agreement to accept in principle draft of March 19 as basis of negotiations to begin March 23, with military on each side participating. |
614 |
| Mar. 22 |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Embarkation of 11th Division for Japan, which will leave approximately 37,000 Japanese troops. |
616 |
| Mar. 22 |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Suggestion that Department make representations at Tokyo requesting the Japanese Government to discourage any movement by “Manchoukuo” authorities against the integrity of the customs in Manchuria. |
616 |
| Mar. 22 (361) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Reuter report from Toyko, March 21, concerning acknowledgment by Japanese Government of Manchurian government’s note of March 12, without reference to question of recognition. |
617 |
| Mar. 22 |
Memorandum by the Under Secretary of State of a
Conversation With the Japanese Ambassador
Discussion of Japanese withdrawal from Shanghai and question of patrolling evacuated zone; Ambassador’s suggestion that it might eventually be considered wise to establish a neutral zone around the International Settlement. |
618 |
| Mar. 23 (70) |
From the Consul General at Nanking
(tel.)
Proposed statement (text printed) to be issued to American citizens in Nanking regarding the advisability of the return of those persons who evacuated Nanking at the beginning of hostilities. |
619 |
| Mar. 23 (115) |
From the Chargé in Great Britain
(tel.)
Partial summary of statement in the House of Commons by Foreign Secretary on Far Eastern situation, in which he said that the question of recognition of the new administration in Manchuria should await the report of the League Commission. |
620 |
| Mar. 23 (112) |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
For the Minister: Information that before acting on the question of representations relative to Manchurian customs service, Department is waiting to ascertain British attitude; instructions to inquire of British Minister regarding the matter. |
621 |
| Mar. 23 (196) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Results of municipal election; failure of one of the two American candidates to be elected, and proposal by representatives of the American community for resignation of American member elected, in protest. |
622 |
| Mar. 23 (114) |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
For the Minister: Opinion that Minister and Consul General should not give encouragement to proposal for resignanation of the remaining American member of the Municipal Council. |
623 |
| Mar. 24 (130) |
From the Consul at Geneva
(tel.)
Circulation by Drummond of a communication from the Chinese Government (text printed) indicating that the Japanese are proceeding to seize customs revenue in Manchuria. |
623 |
| Mar. 24 (369) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Harbin, March 23: Transportation of Japanese troops westward on Chinese Eastern Railway, and eastward by busses to Imienpo, to fight brigands. |
624 |
| Mar, 24 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Meeting of Chinese and Japanese delegates and neutrals, at which General Uyeda presented new draft proposal for cessation of hostilities. |
625 |
| Mar. 24 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Text of new Japanese proposal. |
625 |
| Mar. 25 (71) |
From the Consul General at Nanking
(tel.)
Statement released to American residents of Nanking and to the press (text printed) on question of return to Nanking of American individuals and organizations. |
628 |
| Mar. 25 (374) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Harbin, March 24: Information that Japanese troops are now on all branches of the Chinese Eastern Railway and on Sungari River, in positions to advance toward the Siberian frontier. |
628 |
| Mar. 25 |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Discussion by the negotiators of articles 1 and 2 of March 19 draft; dispute as to amount of time required to complete Japanese withdrawal, and referral of question of Chinese and Japanese lines to a military subcommittee. |
629 |
| Mar. 25 |
Memorandum by the Minister in
China
Discussion with General McCoy regarding program for the League Commission. |
631 |
| Mar. 26 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Departure of League Commission for Nanking. |
632 |
| Mar. 26 |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Conversation with British Minister, as requested in Department’s telegram No. 112, March 23, on the Manchurian customs situation. |
632 |
| Mar. 26 (72) |
From the Consul General at Nanking
(tel.)
Summary of observations (text printed) by the Chinese Foreign Minister regarding the British Foreign Secretary’s statement of March 22 on Sino-Japanese controversy (reported in telegram No. 115, March 23, from the Chargé in Great Britain). |
633 |
| Mar. 26 |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Negotiators’ discussion of draft of March 19 and of Japanese draft of March 24; further consideration by subcommittee of question of Japanese line. |
634 |
| Mar. 26 (99) |
To the Chargé in Great Britain
(tel.)
Transmittal of texts of telegrams of March 22 and March 26 from the Minister in China on question of representations to Japan in Manchurian customs situation; request for report on developments. |
635 |
| Mar. 27 (382) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Mukden, March 26: Information that according to Japanese press reports of cabinet decision of March 24 the existing customs administration will not be interfered with, except for retention of surplus revenue for the use of the new government. |
635 |
| Mar. 27 (381) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Mukden: Plan for staff to accept, while Consul General declines invitation of new Chinese Mayor to a dinner for consular corps and staffs. (Footnote: Department’s approval of plan.) |
636 |
| Mar. 28 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Request for Department’s recommendation of one or more aviation experts qualified to head aviation training mission desired by Chinese Government. |
636 |
| Mar. 28 |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Discussion at Chinese-Japanese meeting of “draft B”, which represents progress made in previous discussions of March 19 draft; disagreement on question of time limit for Japanese withdrawal; concurrent discussion in military subcommittee of Chinese and Japanese positions. |
637 |
| Mar. 28 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Text of draft B. |
638 |
| Mar. 29 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Report of incidents between two sides along Chinese front. |
641 |
| Mar. 29 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Further discussion of draft B. |
641 |
| Mar. 29 (121) |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
For the Minister: Information as to action taken on Chinese request for aviation training mission; opinion that matter should be handled through Chinese Legation in Washington. |
643 |
| Mar. 29 (563) |
From the Consul General at Mukden to the Minister in
China
Information that several Japanese postal officials have arrived in Mukden to investigate postal conditions, reportedly with a view to making recommendations for the taking over of the Chinese post offices in Manchuria by the Japanese Postal Administration. |
643 |
| Mar. 30 (391) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Mukden: Announcement of independence of Salt Administration and assumption of its administrative functions by Changchun government. |
645 |
| Mar. 30 (392) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Harbin: Report by Japanese military mission of dispatch of bombing planes and shifting of troops from eastern line of Chinese Eastern Railway to combat old troops threatening Changchun. |
646 |
| Mar. 30 (D–237) |
From the Consul General at Nanking
Arrival of members of League Far Eastern Commission; copy of memorandum (text printed), prepared at the request of General McCoy, concerning questions of (1) probable stability of the present Chinese Government, and (2) its probable ability to install an efficient government in a restored Manchuria. |
646 |
| Mar. 31 (132) |
From the Consul at Geneva
(tel.)
Circulation by Drummond of a letter from Yen quoting telegrams (texts printed) received by his Government reporting seizure by “Manchoukuo” of customs revenues at Antung and Newchwang, and salt revenue at Mukden. |
651 |
| Mar. 31 |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Acceptance of article 2 of draft B by Chinese-Japanese negotiators; agreement for private, informal negotiations between Shigemitsu and Quo, and representatives of neutral powers, on question of date of Japanese withdrawal. |
652 |
| Mar. 31 (394) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Mukden: Japanese censorship of mail in Chinese post office addressed to local foreigners, and arrest of Chinese Deputy Postal Commissioner at Antung by Japanese gendarmerie. Legation’s intention to instruct Consul General to make informal protest to Japanese Consul General if detention continues. |
652 |
| Mar. 31 (124) |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
For the Minister: Suggestion that American and British Ministers seek to persuade Chinese and Japanese representatives to accept provisions which are reasonable and realistic in order that a signed agreement may be reached. |
653 |
Chapter VIII: April 1–May 5, 1932
| Date and number | Subject | Page |
| 1932 Apr. 1 (396) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Harbin, March 31: Information that local branch of Bank of China has received instructions from new government to turn over customs revenue’s. |
654 |
| Apr. 1 (105) |
To the Chargé in Great Britain
(tel.)
Instructions to inform Sir John Simon of U. S. views as to purpose of joint representations to Japanese Government regarding severance of customs in Manchuria from the Chinese Customs Administration. |
654 |
| Apr. 1 (126) |
From the Chargé in Great Britain
(tel.)
Memorandum by the Foreign Office (text printed), explaining British Government’s disinclination to make formal representations to Japan regarding integrity of customs in Manchuria, but suggesting possibility of verbal and simultaneous representations to the Japanese Ambassadors in Washington and London, respectively. |
656 |
| Apr. 2 (399) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Harbin, April 1: Receipt by the local Post Office Commissioner of notification that new government is taking over postal service in Manchuria. |
657 |
| Apr. 2 (127) |
From the Chargé in Great Britain
(tel.)
Intention, in view of British memorandum, to take no action on Department’s telegram No. 105, April 1, without further instructions. (Footnote: Instructions, April 3, to withhold action.) |
658 |
| Apr. 2 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Meeting of negotiators, acceptance of certain paragraphs of draft B, and postponement of consideration of article 3 and annex 3. |
658 |
| Apr. 2 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Japanese insistence in military subcommittee that the Chinese indicate position of their troops east of Whangpoo River; hope that Japanese Minister can persuade military to drop this request. |
659 |
| Apr. 2 |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Consultations of American and British Ministers with Quo and Shigemitsu in effort to secure compromise on difficulties connected with article 3 and annex 3. |
659 |
| Apr. 2 (130) |
From the Chargé in Great Britain
(tel.)
Receipt of information from confidential source that Japanese Ambassador has told Foreign Secretary Japan would withdraw from the League in event of League interference in Manchurian situation. |
660 |
| Apr. 2 (106) |
To the Chargé in Great Britain
(tel.)
Instructions to convey to British Foreign Office substance of certain paragraphs of Department’s telegram No. 105, April 1, and to express the hope that they will give consideration to U. S. major objective, while Department takes under consideration objective expressed in British memorandum on the subject. |
661 |
| Apr. 3 (402) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Harbin, April 2: Information that post office is awaiting instructions from Nanking, and that Customs Commissioner has been instructed to yield only to force. |
662 |
| Apr. 4 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Receipt of request from the two chief inspectors of Salt Revenue that U. S. Government make representations to the Japanese Government regarding the taking over by the Manchurian authorities of the salt revenues. |
663 |
| Apr. 4 (75) |
From the Consul General at Nanking
(tel.)
Chinese Government’s desire to secure from the United States surplus stocks of war material for use against Japan. |
663 |
| Apr. 4 (133) |
From the Chargé in Great Britain
(tel.)
Conversation with British Prime Minister relative to possibility of conflict between Japan and the League of Nations over the Manchurian situation, and British and American policy in the Far East. |
664 |
| Apr. 4 (76) |
From the Consul General at Nanking
(tel.)
Possibility of outbreak of hostilities after League Commission has proceeded north. |
666 |
| Apr. 4 |
From the Minuter in China (tel.)
Texts of Japanese proposal and Chinese additional suggestion concerning paragraph on question of Japanese withdrawal; agreement of Chinese and Japanese representatives to submit each other’s proposals to their respective Governments for approval. |
667 |
| Apr. 5 (136) |
From the Consul at Geneva
(tel.)
Circulation by Secretary General of a letter from Sato (text printed) denying Chinese charges of Japanese interference in customs matters in Manchuria. |
668 |
| Apr. 5 (35) |
To the Consul General at Nanking
(tel.)
Instructions to advise the Chinese Government of U. S. inability to comply with Chinese request to purchase surplus war material. |
668 |
| Apr. 5 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Opinion that in view of Japanese attitude toward negotiations, it might be helpful if British and American Governments could speak to the Japanese Ambassadors at London and Washington; information that British Minister has similarly informed his Government. |
669 |
| Apr. 6 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
British Minister’s understanding of British Government’s attitude with regard to making of representations at Tokyo on subject of Manchurian Customs Administration. |
671 |
| Apr. 7 (418) |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Information that Consul General at Mukden has been instructed to refrain from presenting claims to de facto provincial authorities in behalf of Standard Oil Company. |
672 |
| Apr. 7 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Agreement by negotiators to refer to military subcommittee Japanese question regarding position of Chinese troops south of Soochow Creek and east of Whangpoo. |
673 |
| Apr. 7 (113) |
To the Chargé in Great Britain
(tel.)
Instructions to convey to Foreign Office certain observations as to inefficacy of oral representations to Japanese Ambassadors, but suggestion for simultaneous public statements by various governments regarding Chinese Customs, Salt and Postal administrations in Manchuria, and making objections and reservations to action of Manchurian administration. |
673 |
| Apr. 7 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Deadlock of negotiations on annex 2 and article 3, relating to Japanese withdrawal; British Minister’s suggestion of three alternative proposals (texts printed) to be submitted by both sides for the consideration of their Governments. |
677 |
| Apr. 8 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Opinion that Japanese are using negotiations to gain time in securing their position in Shanghai with the intention of coercing Chinese into accepting settlement of various questions. |
678 |
| Apr. 9 (424) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Harbin, April 8: Report that General Ma Chan-shan has given up his post as Governor at Tsitsihar and Minister of War of new regime. |
679 |
| Apr. 9 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Two telegrams from Nanking (texts printed), one dated April 7 reporting offer of French Government to send military air mission to China; the other, dated April 8, regarding tentative plans for a U. S. Army officer in Manila to come to China to advise on military air training; suggestion that War Department be advised of latter message. (Footnote: Department’s reply, April 13, that War Department has issued instructions prohibiting U. S. Army officers from accepting such employment.) |
680 |
| Apr. 9 |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Information from Japanese Minister that he has been authorized by his Government to accept alternative (a) regarding Japanese withdrawal as reported in telegram of April 7; reference by Minister to his Government’s desire for a roundtable conference concerning Shanghai. |
681 |
| Apr. 9 | From the Minister in China (tel.)
Interest of foreign businessmen in Shanghai in plans for establishing a “free port” of Shanghai, and advice to them that U. S. Government is not contemplating any change of policy as to future of the International Settlement. (Footnote: Department’s concurrence in Minister’s views.) |
682 |
| Apr. 9 |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Discussion by the negotiators of alternative formulae, and agreement of Chinese and Japanese representatives to submit to their Governments a new formula (text printed), proposed by British and American Ministers. |
683 |
| Apr. 10 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Chinese representative’s position that he cannot sign agreement without inclusion of a timetable, and information that his Government is telegraphing to their representative in Geneva for advice. |
684 |
| Apr. 11 (139) |
From the Consul at Geneva
(tel.)
Circulation by Secretary General of message from Lytton, April 9 (text printed), indicating that he assumes Council members with representatives in China will place their facilities at disposal of the Commission, as has already been done by the Italian Government. |
685 |
| Apr. 11 |
Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Far
Eastern Affairs
Explanation to Chinese Chargé that U. S. Government has no authority to prevent Radio Corporation of America from making a contract with the new Manchurian administration; advice to Radio Corporation representative that Company is acting on its own responsibility and at its own risk in its transaction with Manchurian authorities. |
685 |
| Apr. 11 (56) |
From the Consul at Geneva
(tel.)
Instructions to inform the Secretary General of Department’s arrangements for its offices in China and Japan to extend all proper assistance to the League Commission and General McCoy. |
686 |
| Apr. 12 (103) |
To the Minister in China
(tel.)
Instructions regarding presentation of claims by Standard Oil Company to authorities of new administration in Manchuria. |
687 |
| Apr. 12 |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Information of indefinite postponement of negotiations pending receipt by Chinese of further information from their representative at Geneva regarding League interpretation of time-limit question. Minister’s intention to remain in Shanghai, even though British Minister is returning to Peiping on April 16. |
687 |
| Apr. 12 (104) |
To the Minister in China (tel.)
Information that Department is sending by pouch a plan containing suggestions for solution of Manchurian problem. |
688 |
| Apr. 13 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Chinese Government’s request for postponement of next meeting of conference until information has been received from Chinese delegate at Geneva regarding the time-limit question. |
688 |
| Apr. 13 (80) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Information that Chinese representative has requested a meeting of the Committee of Nineteen in order to present the Chinese viewpoint on the Shanghai negotiations. |
689 |
| Apr. 13 |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Understanding that British forces at Shanghai will be reduced by one battalion. |
689 |
| Apr. 13 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Identic message sent by U. S., British, French, and Italian representatives to their Governments (text printed), giving summary of present situation of conference and suggestion that Assembly’s interpretation of article 3 regarding date of Japanese withdrawal would be helpful. |
689 |
| Apr. 13 |
Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Far
Eastern Affairs of a Conversation With the Chief of Staff, United
States Army
Discussion of possible reduction of armed forces at Shanghai, and General MacArthur’s advice that 31st Regiment be kept at Shanghai until situation is clearer. |
691 |
| Apr. 13 (145) |
To the Ambassador in France (tel.)
For Secretary Stimson (en route to Disarmament Conference at Geneva): Summary of Shanghai negotiations and opinion of Far Eastern Division regarding the situation. |
692 |
| Apr. 14 (435) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Harbin, April 13: Wrecking of Japanese military train on Chinese Eastern Railway. |
692 |
| Apr. 14 (141) |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
For the Minister: Approval of decision to remain in Shanghai. |
693 |
| Apr. 15 (60) |
To the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
For the Secretary: Submission by the Japanese Ambassador of a paper containing text of a formula for Japanese withdrawal, for which Japan may endeavor to secure support at at Geneva, and Department’s comments thereon. |
694 |
| Apr. 15 |
To the Consul General at
Shanghai
Appreciation of Consul General’s suggestions contained in his despatch No. 8126 of February 19 relative to the future administration of Shanghai. |
695 |
| Apr. 16 (143) |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
For the Minister: Views regarding General McCoy’s request for special transportation facilities, and instructions to communicate these views to Admiral Taylor and General McCoy. |
695 |
| Apr. 17 |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Information that Chinese Government does not wish to take up question of aviation training mission through its Legation in Washington and is continuing its conversations with Trade Commissioner Howard regarding civilian aviation. |
696 |
| Apr. 18 |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Information that Chinese representative is returning from Nanking and expects to resume negotiations with Japanese. |
697 |
| Apr. 18 (82) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Telegram sent by the Secretary of State to the Minister in China (text printed) informing him of proposed adoption of a resolution by Committee of Nineteen giving interpretation of article 3 of draft agreement relative to Japanese withdrawal; requesting Minister’s personal opinion as to proposed action; and authorizing him, in his discretion, to join in identic reply being requested from his colleagues by their Governments. |
697 |
| Apr. 18 (462) |
From the Consul General at
Mukden
Transmittal of resume” of political developments in South Manchuria between September 18, 1931, and March 31, 1932; evidence showing that Japan deliberately planned the domination of Manchuria. |
698 |
| Apr. 19 (214) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
Instances of injuries suffered by American businessmen in Chapei and other territory now under Japanese military occupation, and request for instructions regarding recognition of Japanese de facto authority. |
700 |
| Apr. 19 (445) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Mukden, April 18: Information on closing of the offices of the district inspector of the Salt Administration. |
702 |
| Apr. 19 (145) |
From the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
For the Minister: Department’s nonobjection to Trade Commissioner’s discussion of civilian aviation question with Soong, but opinion, concurred in by War Department, that U. S. Government or its officers should not be associated with military training. |
702 |
| Apr. 19 (83) |
From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
To Shanghai, for Bngert from the Secretary of State: Request for information as to whether the Minister has agreed to proposed identic note (quoted in telegram No. 88, April 23); request for his personal opinion in the matter. |
702 |
| Apr. 19 (84) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Paragraphs 11 and 14 (texts printed) of draft resolution of Committee of Nineteen. |
703 |
| Apr. 19 (85) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Information that the draft resolution was unanimously adopted by Committee of Nineteen and text given to Chinese and Japanese representatives for submission to their Governments. |
703 |
| Apr. 20 |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Repetition of telegram to the Consul at Geneva, for the Secretary, advising of Minister’s concurrence in views of his colleagues (identic note quoted in telegram No. 88, April 23). |
704 |
| Apr. 20 (39) |
From the Minister in Latvia (tel.)
Report on anti-Japanese campaign in Soviet press. |
704 |
| Apr. 21 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
British Minister’s desire to know attitude of U. S. Government toward giving the Joint Committee, established in article 4 of draft agreement, authority to declare when time had come for withdrawal of Japanese forces. |
704 |
| Apr. 21 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Summary of confidential memoranda on factors which are influencing the Chinese in present negotiations. |
705 |
| Apr. 21 (85) [86?] |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
From the Secretary: Feeling that there should be no reluctance in accepting responsibility involved in Committee’s resolution with respect to declaration by Joint Committee of time for Japanese withdrawal. |
706 |
| Apr. 21 (52) |
To the Minister in Switzerland, at Geneva
(tel.)
For the Secretary: Advice from Japanese Ambassador of Japanese Government’s nonacceptance of paragraph 11 of Committee’s resolution; suggestion that scope of responsibility to be assumed by Joint Commission be more exactly defined. |
706 |
| Apr. 21 |
Memorandum by the Minister in
Switzerland
Discussion with Mr. Matsudaira concerning Japanese objections to paragraph 11. |
707 |
| Apr 21 (1491) |
From the Minister in China
Departure of League Inquiry Commission for Manchuria on April 19; account of Commission’s activities while in Peiping. |
710 |
| Apr. 22 (458) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Harbin, April 21: Report of conditions in Northern Manchuria; advice by the Japanese Vice Consul that he is arranging a program for the League Commission’s visit to Harbin. |
711 |
| Apr. 22 (87) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
From the Secretary: Opinion that question of responsibility for extent of Japanese withdrawal is provided for in article 10 (text printed) of draft resolution. (Footnote: Information that instructions regarding draft resolution were sent to Minister in China in telegram No. 55, April 22.) |
712 |
| Apr. 22 (459) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Summary of comments made by General McCoy in informal conversation regarding Manchurian investigation. |
712 |
| Apr. 22 |
To Dr. George H.
Blakeslee
Transmittal of an outline of a plan for a solution of the Manchurian problem (text printed), for use in the working out of a solution of the Sino-Japanese controversy. |
713 |
| Apr. 22 |
Memorandum of a Conversation
Between the Secretary of State and M. Hymans in Geneva: Discussion of probable Japanese declaration regarding draft resolution, and general aspects of Shanghai negotiations and Manchurian question. |
716 |
| Apr. 23 |
From Mr. Hsieh
Chieh-shih (tel.)
Notification of desire of the state of Manchuria to adhere to International Radiotelegraph Convention of Washington. (Footnote: Information that telegram from Changchun was filed without reply.) |
719 |
| Apr. 23 |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Discussions of British, and American Ministers with Shigemitsu and Quo, and suggestion for adoption of amended annex 4 of draft agreement in lieu of article 11 of draft resolution, which Japanese and Chinese representatives agreed to take up with their Governments. |
719 |
| Apr. 23 (88) |
From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
For Hornbeck from Klots: Transmittal of telegram dated April 19 from Shanghai, for the Secretary (text printed), containing identic reply of representatives of the four interested powers to inquiries from their Governments regarding draft resolution. |
721 |
| Apr. 23 (2367) |
From the Consul General at Harbin to the Minister in
China
Information that a reply has been received from the Harbin Post Commissioner to complaint regarding detention of certain publications of the American Mission of Seventh-Day Adventists by a Japanese censor and that it would appear that American mail in Manchuria is subject to both censorship and detention by Japanese authorities. |
722 |
| Apr. 25 (464) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Harbin, April 23: Information from Japanese Vice Consul concerning defeat of old Kirin troops by Japanese troops near Imienpo, and seizure by bandits of Chinese Eastern Railway station at Sanchaho. |
722 |
| Apr. 25 (153) |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
For the Minister: Approval of action taken and further instructions and comments in regard to difficulties of American businessmen and protection of American property in Chapei and surrounding Chinese territory. |
723 |
| Apr. 25 (57) |
To the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
For the Secretary: Information, in telegram from Legation in China (text printed), that Ohashi, formerly Japanese Consul General at Harbin, is in charge of general affairs in the Foreign Office of new government at Changchun. |
724 |
| Apr. 26 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Report that Chinese Government is willing to accept suggested amendment to paragraph 11 of draft resolution. |
724 |
| Apr. 26 (89) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Information that Committee of Nineteen was advised by British representative of new formula amending armistice agreement (text printed), and which would replace present article 11 of draft resolution; that formula has been accepted by Chinese Government, and that Shigemitsu is seeking his Government’s consent. |
724 |
| Apr. 27 |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Information that Minister is preparing a letter to his Japanese colleague, protesting instances of injury to American business interests in areas under Japanese military control; opinion that clause on responsibility for damages should be included in protest, and request for instructions regarding general policy in the matter. |
725 |
| Apr. 27 |
Memorandum by the Consul General at
Nanking
Conversation with Dr. Millard, Adviser to the Chinese Government, and Mr. Ingram, British Counselor of Legation, concerning Shanghai negotiations; observations by Dr. Millard on China’s policy toward Japan and decisive role of the United States in the settlement of the Far East controversy. |
726 |
| Apr. 28 (90) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Acceptance by both Chinese and Japanese of the proposal as last reported regarding duties of Joint Commission, and information that the draft resolution will be submitted to the Assembly on April 30. |
730 |
| Apr. 28 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Formal acceptance by Quo and Shigemitsu of amendment to annex 4; Minister’s intention to designate Consul General as civilian representative, and a language officer as military representative, on Joint Commission. Hope that Department will approve Minister’s return to Peiping after signature of agreement. |
730 |
| Undated |
From the Chinese Assessor to the League of Nations
Manchuria Inquiry Commission
Information that Chinese Assessor and his staff have been completely isolated and placed under strict surveillance by Japanese police agents in Mukden. |
732 |
| Apr. 29 (481) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Harbin, April 28: Information that Japanese are openly showing their control of the new government. |
733 |
| Apr. 29 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Report of bombing incident during Japanese military review. |
733 |
| Apr. 30 (91) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
Suggestion by Sir John Simon that four Ministers at Shanghai resume joint reports to Committee of Nineteen, and information that Secretary Stimson sees no objection. (Footnote: Information that Minister in China was instructed to telegraph to Department texts of any joint reports submitted.) |
734 |
| Apr. 30 (92) |
From the Minister in Switzerland
(tel.)
From the Secretary: Report of satisfactory conversations with British officials and various members of League regarding Japan and China. |
734 |
| Apr. 30 (165) |
From the Consul at Geneva
(tel.)
Information that Assembly, Japan abstaining, passed unanimously the resolution (text printed) submitted by the Committee of Nineteen. |
735 |
| Apr. 30 (487) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Mukden: Information that League Inquiry Commission will leave Mukden May 2 for Changchun and North Manchuria. |
737 |
| Apr. 30 (162) |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
For the Minister: Approval of representatives for Joint Commission provided other powers make similar designations; advice that question of return to Peiping will be considered when agreement has been signed. |
738 |
| Apr. 30 |
From the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs at
Nanking to the Chinese Legation
Information that bomb-thrower in incident at the Hongkew Park, Shanghai, was a Korean, who has been arrested by the Japanese troops. |
738 |
| Apr. 30 |
From the British Secretary of State for Foreign
Affairs to the Secretary of State, at Geneva
Information as to action of Manchurian authorities in relation to administrative integrity of China, particularly in relation to customs revenues and salt gabelle; opinion that joint or similar representations to Japanese Government might be made regarding salt gabelle. |
738 |
| May 1 (489) |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
From Harbin, April 30: Japanese-inspired arrests of alleged Communists, and press charges of communist activities against new state and Japanese forces. |
740 |
| May 1 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Message from Japanese Government (text printed) indicating intention to proceed with negotiations notwithstanding the Hongkew Park bombing incident. |
741 |
| Apr. 14 |
From the Chairman of the Provincial Government of
Heilungkiang to the Chinese Delegation at Geneva
Account of Japanese domination of Manchuria and setting up of the puppet government. |
741 |
| May 3 |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Information that Quo Tai-chi, Chinese delegate, received a slight injury from an assault by a Chinese student. |
747 |
| [May 3] (464) |
From the Consul General at Mukden
Report of arrival of League Inquiry Commission at Mukden, their treatment by Japanese authorities, and departure for Changchun. |
747 |
| May 4 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Japanese proposal to make a statement (text printed) at signing of agreement, respecting Chinese right to dispatch troops for maintaining order; British alternative proposal which British Ambassador at Tokyo has been instructed to endeavor to have adopted; hope that American Ambassador can be instructed to join in British Ambassador’s representations. (Repeated to Tokyo.) |
751 |
| May 3 (99) |
To the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Authorization to cooperate with British Ambassador in appropriate representations as to proposed Japanese statement, and instructions to inform Department and Minister in China of action taken. |
752 |
| May 4 (122) |
From the Chargé in Japan (tel.)
Information from Foreign Office that instructions to Japanese delegates have been changed and that statement will not be made. |
752 |
| May 5 |
From the Minister in China
(tel.)
Notification that agreement was signed at noon; information regarding constitution of Joint Committee; Minister’s intention to leave for Nanking May 7. |
753 |
| May 5 |
From the Minister in China (tel.)
Report of incident on Settlement border between Japanese marines and Settlement police, involving 31st Infantry; recommendation that question of withdrawal of 31st Infantry be reconsidered in view of conditions. |
753 |
| May 5 (169) |
To the Consul General at Shanghai
(tel.)
For the Minister: Instructions with respect to presentation of claims to Chinese and Japanese authorities; request for substance of similar instructions received by British colleague. |
754 |