793.94/10314: Telegram
The Ambassador in Japan (Grew) to the Secretary of State
Tokyo, September 29, 1937—10
p.m.
[Received September 29—12:39 p.m.]
[Received September 29—12:39 p.m.]
432. The Military Attaché has today submitted to me the following memorandum:
“The following information was gathered last night by officers of this office in the course of conversation with well-informed Japanese officers who hold responsible positions in the War Department and General Staff headquarters.
- (a)
- The Japanese Army is very anxious to have the United States understand that all Japanese operations in China are aimed at military objectives. No intentional attacks have been or will be made on nonmilitary Chinese or foreign property or persons.
- (b)
- Responsibility for the destruction of foreign property or lives in the course of military operations is not admitted, but in the case of the bombing of the American Mission School at Tungchow, a solatium of 1,500 yen has been given.
- (c)
- The Army approves the sending abroad of unofficial, distinguished Japanese to explain to foreign countries Japan’s intentions in China, and particularly the absence of any territorial ambitions there. Mr. Matsukata goes to the United States prepared to make large purchases from American firms.
- (d)
- Japanese Army forces in the Shanghai area will be limited to the four divisions now there and are considered sufficient to force the withdrawal of Chinese troops from the vicinity of Shanghai. A more extensive operation in that theatre is not contemplated.
- (e)
- Troop movements to North China and the Shanghai area will in future be limited to the replacements necessary to maintain units in the field at the prescribed strength.
- (f)
- The possibility that Soviet Russia may ally itself openly with China is considered serious and steps have been taken to reenforce the Kwantung Army as a protective measure. There is a strong feeling among the younger Army officers that, as Russia will have to be fought sometime, the war might just as well come soon. However, plans to bring on another Russo-Japanese war soon have not been made.”
Grew