793.94/13197: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Johnson) to the Secretary of State
[Received June 12—8:15 a.m.]
286. My 284, June 12, 11 a.m.50b Following from Admiral Yarnell:
“Reference letters from Mr. Tani to you dated 11 June there are no United States men-of-war in Yangtze between Wuhu and Hukow at present. It is my intention to visit Nanking and Wuhu about 24–25 June in U. S. S. Isabel. Future presence of United States naval vessels in area Wuhu-Hukow will depend on whether American nationals that area are in need of assistance. Due notice of movements of United States men-of-war will be given Japanese and Chinese authorities. This also applies to movements of vessels above Hukow. While due care will be taken to avoid unnecessary exposure in dangerous areas, assistance to American nationals in evacuation of such areas is paramount mission of Navy and will be followed. It is not considered that warning given by Japanese Ambassador relieves that nation in slightest degree of responsibility for damage or injury to United States naval vessels or personnel. With reference to suggestion contained in second letter that United States naval vessels should be made more distinguishable, ‘such as painting the greater part of the vessel scarlet or in other colors,’ this suggestion cannot be considered. United States naval vessels on Yangtze are painted white with large American flags painted on their awnings. These flags and nationality of vessels should be apparent to any aviator at several thousand feet altitude. Attention is invited to tact that Chinese Government has no vessel of river gunboat type on Yangtze. Comyangpat51 by copy of this despatch will carry out policy of Cincaf52 with reference to details of execution.”
I am instructing Lockhart to make a reply to Mr. Tani in my name along lines of Admiral Yarnell’s telegram above quoted.
Shanghai is being requested to mail to Tokyo a copy of Yarnell’s comments.