793.94/6283: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Minister in China (Johnson)
175. I desire that you telegraph in some detail your considered estimate of the present situation and that you outline the various possibilities that might eventuate in case Japanese forces occupy Peiping. I desire particularly your estimate of the likelihood of American lives being endangered and of the likelihood of the American marine guard becoming involved.
As the situation develops I desire that you keep the Department informed as promptly and fully as possible not only with regard to your own views and action taken by American authorities but also in regard to the views of and action taken by your most interested colleagues.