Office of the Historian

893.00/13807: Telegram

The Ambassador in China (Johnson) to the Secretary of State

Nanking, December 21, 1936—6 p.m.
[Received December 21—11 a.m.]

370. Department’s 86, December 19, midnight.

1.
I communicated Department’s message to British Ambassador this morning. He was without instructions from his Government and we will await further eventualities.
2.
French Ambassador called upon me this morning and inquired about British proposal. Apparently French Government had completely misunderstood, for it described it as a proposal for the offer of mediation by the powers. I read to the French Ambassador Department’s 84 of December 18, 7 p.m.; my 365, December 19, 11 p.m.; and Department’s 86, December 19, midnight, and explained to the French Ambassador that the proposal contemplated merely offering Chang Hsueh-liang, Yang Hu Cheng sanctuary and safe conduct out of China after his [their?] arrival at a port, preferably Tientsin. I explained to him that both the British Ambassador and I were in agreement that it would be highly dangerous and very improper for us to offer any mediation under present circumstances.
5 [3].
Suma called upon me this afternoon and inquired regarding British proposal. I explained to him as I explained to the French Ambassador. Suma stated that his Government had not made up its mind but was seeking information and advice.
6 [4].
I called on the Minister for Foreign Affairs this afternoon to inquire concerning developments. He stated that Soong was still in Sian and that they hoped for some news tomorrow. I found them expecting Donald to arrive in Nanking this afternoon. There is no change in local situation. All are anxiously awaiting outcome of present negotiations.

Sent to the Department; code texts by mail to Peiping and Tokyo.

Johnson