894.48B/302a: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Chargé in Japan (Caffery)
262. Following for you from Red Cross:
“Number 34. Without wishing to determine the exact manner in which the balance of Japanese relief funds may be expended we would look with favor on a slight change in our plans as indicated in previous cables if in your judgment such modification would bring about a solution of the present delay. You might therefore indicate to the Japanese that we would approve a three part division of the balance on hand as follows: One and one-half million dollars for the construction of a hospital; the same amount for an endowment of the hospital; and the balance to be expended for relief supplies. The above plan has been informally discussed with Ambassador Hanihara and he will probably communicate it to the Japanese Government. Hanihara was asked to say that he understood that if a program along some such lines as outlined were proposed to American Red Cross it would be looked upon favorably. You should clearly understand that this is not in any way an attempt to dictate a plan for using the relief fund now on hand. American Red Cross does not desire to change arrangement which has worked so well whereby Japanese have suggested how funds shall be used. We do desire action as soon as possible. We appreciate that a hospital with endowment might be welcome when without it might be white elephant. We again emphasise that plan must come from Japan with full approval. Fieser. American Red Cross.”