893.5045/372: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Minister in China (MacMurray)
182. British Embassy today left with Department a note from which the following is quoted:
[Here follows essential part of note, printed supra.]
Department has no information regarding firing on British and other nationals mentioned in British note nor of the imprisonment of a United States citizen. In order to make suitable reply to British note Department desires report on these incidents.
Department is disposed to decline invitation to associate itself with the action which the British Government is taking and to reply that it prefers to pursue present policy in accordance with which American naval officers are under standing instructions to take all action necessary for the protection of American lives and property. Before replying, however, Department desires your advice and comment in regard to British inquiry. See in this connection Department’s 202 August 15, 1 p.m., 1925.31