"Underhand"

No sensible nation declares war any more. The automatic operation of neutrality laws, possible sanctions against aggressors, questions of belligerent rights and rights of blockade, make a declaration of war altogether indiscreet and rash.

In the Far East's major conflict, Japan and China have neither broken off diplomatic relations nor declared war. Technically, Japan and China still remain "friendly" nations. Until last January a Japanese Ambassador remained in Hankow, until January Chinese Ambassador Hsu Shih-yin was at his Tokyo post. Even when Ambassador Hsu left, a Chinese charge d'affaires and the Embassy staff remained. Last week, however, even they departed.

Reason given: Japan's "underhand methods" in inspiring demonstrations against the Chinese diplomats. Before leaving, China's charge d'affaires reminded the Japanese Government that it was still obliged to protect Chinese lives and property in Japan.

This file is automatically generated by a robot program, so reader's discretion is required.