793.94/14099: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in China (Johnson)
270. Shanghai’s 1344, October 17, 6 p.m. The Department suggests for your consideration that the letter quoted in Shanghai’s telegram under reference might be filed without acknowledgment or that you might reply to the letter simply with a reference to your reply46 to Mr. Tani’s letter of June 11 and a tactfully worded statement that your attitude and that of the American Commander in Chief [Page 188] continue to be as outlined therein; and if you consider that a reply is called for the Department would appreciate being informed of the contemplated substance thereof prior to its communication to Mr. Tani.
The Department is confident that in this connection you and the Commander in Chief will bear in mind its 177, June 13, 11 p.m.,47 with regard to the unfortunate consequences of unintended publicity. Please also refer to Department’s 214, July 24, 1 p.m.
Please confer with Admiral Yarnell and inform the Department of his and your views.