893.00/5495: Telegram

The Chargé in China (Bell) to the Secretary of State

324. My 315, August 30, 4 p.m.

1.
Commander in chief inquires whether you approved position there indicated, as otherwise he considers he should use force on Yangtze only to protect life and American property.
2.
Chinese admirals of opposing factions have issued orders restricting traffic on Yangtze for about 80 miles up stream from its mouth and representatives of powers possessing naval vessels in Chinese waters have accordingly decided to inquire of their respective governments whether the latter will approve use of force to prevent application of restrictions.
3.
While favoring action indicated in my 315 if it becomes necessary, I feel that proposal in paragraph 2 of this telegram would not be justified.
4.
Please reply to both above inquiries.
Bell