793.94/4298: Telegram
The Consul General at Shanghai (Cunningham) to the Secretary of State
[Received February 19—9:35 a.m.]
78. My telegram No. 19, February 9, 10 a.m. Senior Consul has had reply from Japanese dated February 17th to letter of February 8th regarding flight of military airplanes over the Settlement. Reply acknowledges receipt of letter of February 8th and states:
“In compliance with your request, the purport of your letter has been duly notified to the Japanese authorities concerned who in reply have informed me that, as strict instructions have been given to Japanese aviators to refrain from flying over the Settlement, the practice will naturally be discontinued in the future, unless it is absolutely impossible for the defense of the Settlement and for the protection of Japanese lives and property.”
This is not as satisfactory as the oral assurance given to Admiral Taylor reported in my telegram No. 37, February 12, 3 p.m.
Repeated to the Legation and Nanking for information.