793.94/7445: Telegram
The Chargé in Japan (Neville) to the Secretary of State
[Received November 28—4:32 a.m.]
223. Peiping’s 182, November 27, 5 p.m. Army authorities here inform Military Attaché that no additional Japanese troops have moved into North China nor do the Japanese anticipate the necessity for sending any in the immediate future. The military authorities stated also that the Kwantung Army has authority to move into the demilitarized zone without special orders from Tokyo but that movements beyond that zone require Imperial sanction.
Troop movements in North China are stated to be units of the North China garrison moving in connection with annual inspection.
The Army did not expect the independence move by five provinces but anticipated that move by Hopei, Chahar and possibly Shantung. The delay in the independence announcement by General Sung for Hopei and Chahar surprised the Army which is now confident that the announcement will be made soon. The delay in the independence announcement, the recent movements of Sung’s troops into the demilitarized zone and their withdrawal on Sung’s own initiative, are [Page 452] gestures for the benefit of the Nanking Government and can be accounted for by Sung’s delicate position.
Repeated to Peiping.