Mr. Hay to Mr.
Choate.
Department of State,
Washington, June 4,
1901.
No. 647.]Sir: I inclose herewith copy of a letter from
Hon. James R. Mann, a member of Congress from Illinois, who desires
inquiry to be made with a view to ascertain whether William Frederick
Versluis, who is held as a British prisoner of war on the island of
Ceylon, may not be released on parole on the understanding that he will
return to the United States, his brothers furnishing the passage
money.
You may make the inquiry.
I am, etc.,
[Inclosure.]
Mr. Mann to Mr.
Hill.
House of Representatives,
Chicago, Ill., May
31, 1901.
Dear Sir: Referring to your kind favor of
the 22d instant relating to the case of William Frederick Versluis,
who is held as a prisoner of war by the British Government, permit
me to request that you make proper representations to endeavor to
obtain the release of Mr. Versluis on parole on the understanding
that he will return to the United States. His brothers here are
willing to furnish the passage money for his return home, and will
do so at such time and in such manner as may be indicated by you or
required.
May I specially request that an effort be made to obtain the release
on parole of Versluis?
I have, etc.,
