Mr. Adee to Mr. Denby.
Washington, August 22, 1895.
On 13th instant consul at Foochow telegraphed he was starting for Kutien. He was instructed by telegraph that if not acting under your orders he was to await your directions. Nothing since heard from him. It is reported that consul at Foochow and naval ensign went to Kutien of their own initiative and not instructed. If this be so, you will disavow their unauthorized action, and if not already done proceed at once to designate American commissioners as directed in my telegram of 12th, notifying Chinese Government and demanding escort and free access to Chinese investigation. Report situation by telegraph.