793.94/9916: Telegram
The Ambassador in Japan (Grew) to the Secretary of State
[Received September 5—6:18 a.m.]
347. Department’s 188, September 3, 1 p.m.43 The addresses of both the Ministers of War and of the Navy consisted almost entirely [Page 369] of narrative of naval and military operations. The former concluded his address as follows:
“The situation in all its phases has become aggravated, and no relaxation of caution with regard to future developments is warranted. However, the Army is determined to overcome whatever difficulties may arise hereafter, to punish the lawless Chinese Army, and to attain our objectives as quickly as possible. Even though the Chinese may plan to draw out the hostilities for an extended period of time, it is our intention to deal with the Chinese thoroughly and completely, eliminate Chinese hostility toward Japan, and to destroy their fighting spirit. We are firmly resolved not to let up until our purpose has been achieved.”
The Navy Minister’s address contained a brief declaration that there would be no interference with the peaceful commerce of third countries with China.
- Not printed; it requested information.↩