Secretary Ronglu,

I do not understand why the presence of German troops in Tsingtao did not threaten Chinese sovereignty and safety, yet the presence of Japanese forces does so. I find this to be an insult which I am sure you did not mean to convey. You must understand our position. The causes of war with Germany have been well documented by ourselves and other members of the international community. It is through no ambitions of Empire that we were forced to these measures. We have told you that our forces will remain in Tsingtao at least until the war is completed, we fail to see what possible harm this could cause to China when,China found no disfavor with the German occupation of this place. I say again, Japanese Troops must remain in Tsingtao until the conclusion of this war, whether or not, upon its conclusion, the territory returns to Chinese hands depends upon the actions China takes during the conflict. We strongly suggest China ignores this spat and carries on with its own affairs and pursues its own agendas. We encourage you to demobilise your troops, or mobilise them to areas where they can do some good, such as suppressing the rebellions within your own borders which threaten peoples of many nationalities residing in your Country.

We mean you no harm, we will do you no harm and we will negotiate for the return of Tsingtao to China upon the conclusion of this war, if China leaves us with that opportunity.

The night approaches,
darkness on Mt. Ogura
where the deer cry out
and in their voices calling
is it autumn on the wane?