711.94/1490: Telegram
The Ambassador in Japan (Grew) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 3—8:40 p.m.]
303. Our 302, May 3, midnight. I am making available to Mr. Sayre the content of instructions which I have received at various times with regard to the attitude of our Government in respect of requests for “mediation” or “the extension of straight communication” which might be made by the Japanese Government or by the Chinese Government or by both Governments. Mr. Sayre is taking every precaution against giving any impression that the American Government is willing or prepared to take any initiative whatever in the matter, and he will be on the alert during the conversation, which he is to have on Monday with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, to deal conclusively with any suggestion which might be made that the Chinese Government be sounded out by us.