793.94/8157: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Johnson) to the Secretary of State
[Received September 19—5:29 p.m.]
455. 1. Japanese authorities have stated to the press that as their troops stationed at Fengtai were returning from maneuvers last night about 6 o’clock the Chinese sentry in front of the Chinese barracks made an insulting remark or gesture to one of the Japanese officers commanding the troops. An altercation immediately ensued and the Chinese barracks which are situated near the railroad station and house 120 troops or 1 company of the 37th Division of the 29th Army and constitute all of the Chinese troops stationed in Fengtai itself were kept under siege without shooting during the night and early morning. Meanwhile negotiations were carried on between Chinese and Japanese authorities and according to good authority the following agreement was reached at 10 this morning when the siege was raised:
- (a)
- A public apology before the troops of both countries to Colonel Mutaguchi of the Japanese Embassy Guard by the Chinese general in command.
- (b)
- The immediate withdrawal of all Chinese troops in Fengtai to a point 2 miles south of railroad.
- (c)
- The eventual withdrawal of all Chinese troops in Fengtai region to Nanyuan or Hsiyuan.
Reliable American informants say the first two requirements being carried out this week. They were informed by Chinese officers on the spot that they were unable to resist the Japanese in view of General Sung Che Yuan’s standing instructions that they were not to fight in any event.
2. According to the press, precautions were taken throughout China yesterday to avoid unfortunate incidents on the fifth anniversary of the Mukden incident. No such incidents have been reported.
By mail to Tokyo.