793.94/12292: Telegram
The Consul at Chefoo (Allen) to the Secretary of State
[Received February 3—6 a.m.]
Naval landing parties from a force of nine Japanese naval vessels are completing occupation of Chefoo. Japanese have hoisted Japanese flag over all Chinese public buildings. Commissioner of Customs intends to protest against raising of Japanese flag over Chinese customs on grounds of international interest in customs and customs revenue. I do not believe that Japanese action constitutes an infringement of American rights in customs integrity and customs revenue which would warrant a protest from me at this time. Posters distributed by Japanese forces show five barred flag and bear Chinese characters “Republic reborn Peking”.