Papers Relating to the Foreign Relations of the United States, 1924, Volume I

893.00/5781: Telegram

The Chargé in China (Mayer) to the Secretary of State

Peking, November 21, 1924—2 p.m.
[Received November 21—9:39 a.m.]

452. My number 448, November 18, 4 p.m.

1. Pursuant to instructions from Minister for Foreign Affairs a secretary from Wai Chiao Pu has just called to inform me that Marshal Tuan Chi-jui is expected to come Peking at least within five days and that upon his arrival here Cabinet will hand over to Marshal Tuan the powers of Premier and President under which Cabinet has been functioning.

2. From my conversation with secretary from Foreign Office and conversation Chinese secretary has just had with apparently well-informed politicians, Marshal Tuan and associates have not yet determined definitely form his anticipated administration will take.

3. In accord with Department’s 277, of November 11, 4 p.m.²³ I shall not enter into formal relations with Marshal Tuan or any authorities acting under him should he take charge of affairs at Peking as anticipated, until I receive the Department’s instructions in the matter. Should Marshal Tuan cause the question of recognition to be broached I shall be noncommittal.

4. Repeated to Tokyo.

Mayer

23. Post, p. 419.