125.643/55: Telegram
The Chargé in China (Perkins) to the Secretary of State
[Received September 20—12:07 p.m.]
719. Legation’s 698, September 11, 5 p.m. Following in part from Shanghai.
“September 17, 5 p.m. On September 15th I called on Minister for Foreign Affairs and he informed me that he had encountered unexpected opposition in Nanking to the proposed honors to the American flag. I expressed astonishment and embarrassment since his former unqualified assurances had been transmitted to the American Government. (Omission.) I received Wang yesterday evening. He stated he would bend efforts to carry out original ceremonies with some modification and would promptly acquaint me with developments.
Wang informed me that owing to unforeseen circumstances the rehabilitation of the consular premises will be somewhat delayed but that he will make every effort to expedite. Spiker states he is now in a position to request local estimates for refurnishing of premises and will duly forward to the Department.”
2. Cunningham has been, of course, fully acquainted with the Department’s desires regarding ceremonies as expressed in paragraph 4 of its No. 300, August 31, 7 p.m.