393.1115/2249: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in China (Johnson)
15. Your 52, December 14, 11 p.m.45 From the American point of view an important factor to consider is that there would arise almost inevitably, in the event of emergency at Hankow, the problem of policing any safety area established as the result of representations to Japan by the American Government. American forces available would presumably be called upon to bear a share in policing the area and this might involve a call for landing and maintenance ashore on Chinese territory of American bluejackets or marines. This Government desires to avoid such development. Your comment upon the foregoing is requested. The Department would welcome any further suggestions you may have in mind.
[Page 404]Meanwhile, Americans should still and constantly be advised to withdraw.
How many Americans are now in Hankow?
- Not printed.↩