793.94 Commission/437: Telegram
The Ambassador in Great Britain (Mellon) to the Secretary of State
[Received October 10—3:43 p.m.]
289. From Norman Davis.
“In the course of a conversation last night Simon said that he had not yet finished his analysis of the Lytton report and was thinking of having Lytton come to see him some day this week for a general discussion in order to get his views in the light of developments since the signing of the report. He said he would like to have me present. He then said he thought it most important for the United States and England to stand together in dealing with the Far Eastern situation but we ought to decide what is the most practical thing to do and then announce our attitude and policy, making such announcements separately but possibly on the same day. (Personally, I think it is important to keep the French with us in this matter and from my talks with Herriot am fairly confident we can rely on their cooperation). Simon felt sure that if we thus showed a unity of view and purpose there would be no danger of trouble with Japan. He furthermore said that their interest in the whole situation was the same as ours and while they want to remain friendly with Japan as we do they have an obligation to uphold treaties to which they are parties and also an interest in having a square deal for China. He asked me if I knew just what you had in mind as to the next step. I told him that so far as I knew you were also considering the Lytton report and awaiting information regarding the action of the League with regard to this report before deciding upon the next step, that I was sure you would be sympathetic with his suggestion of giving thorough consideration to all the aspects of the problem and of reaching an understanding as to the next move. I said that if he wished I would ask you for your views which he said he hoped I would do. Simon also seemed concerned as to what practical steps could be taken to give effect to the Lytton report. My impression [Page 297] is that Simon has definitely made up his mind to stand with us but desires to build up as strong a case as possible and to be careful about every move.”