793.94/5895: Telegram
The Minister in China (Johnson) to the Secretary of State
[Received February 17—5:05 a.m.]
157. According to report obtained by the American Military Attaché’s office from Japanese sources two Japanese divisions will probably start drive on Jehol about February 21st in order to reach Chengteh before March 1st, the anniversary of establishment of Manchukuo. As terrain is difficult for infantry, bombing planes are to be extensively used and if progress through Jehol proves very slow Japanese may occupy parts of North China south of the Wall. In any event reconnaissance flights will probably be made over Peiping [Page 185] by planes from Chinchow or from airplane carrier off Taku. Such planes may bomb the two flying fields near Peiping in order to cause a panic in the city which might force Chang Hsueh-liang to resign. It is not intended to bomb the city itself unless planes are fired upon by Chinese troops.
By mail to Tokyo.