893.102S/2295a: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Ambassodar in Japan (Grew)
366. Unless you perceive objection, please seek an interview with the Minister for Foreign Affairs at the earliest practicable moment and say that this Government has received information to the effect that certain Japanese military elements at Shanghai propose that Japanese armed forces forcibly occupy the French Concession there within the immediate future. Say that the Government of the United States views this report with serious concern both because of our general interest in the maintenance of the status quo except as changes may be and are brought about through orderly processes with due consideration for the rights and legitimate interests of all concerned, [Page 818] and because of the residence in the French Concession of a considerable part of the American community at Shanghai. Express hope that there is no foundation in fact for the report in question and request information in regard thereto.
Please repeat to Shanghai for repetition by Shanghai to Chungking and Peiping.