793.94/9334: Telegram
The Consul General at Shanghai (Gauss) to the Secretary of State
[Received August 13—10:35 a.m.]
467. The secretary of the Consular Body came to me this morning from the Japanese Consul General to say that the latter has again been instructed from Tokyo to do everything possible to avoid a conflict at Shanghai. Japanese Consul General desired to know whether I and my principal colleagues would be willing to explore the situation further with the Mayor. Japanese Consul General was quoted as saying he was prepared to recommend to his Government that Japanese forces here be substantially reduced and withdrawn if some similar recommendation can be made on Chinese side.
My British and French colleagues when consulted indicated their willingness to confer on the subject. They are meeting me shortly. I shall suggest that we then see the Japanese Consul General to confirm his position and to ascertain what he might be willing to recommend to Tokyo; and thereafter that we see the Mayor and inquire whether he would be willing to recommend some such action to his Government.
I am aware that Japanese may be taking their action from political motives in view of the large Chinese concentration here and their desire to confine the conflict to the north. At the same time, in view of the grave position here as it affects the safety of our nationals, I feel that we should not refuse to do whatever we can upon request to facilitate the desire of either side to initiate proposals or offers for reference to their respective Governments as a basis for any conversations they may then undertake between themselves or under the benevolent observance of higher authorities. Developments will be reported.
Sent to the Department. Repeated to Nanking and Peiping.