The Secretary of State to the Consul General at Sydney (Brittain)
Washington,
September 20, 1916
.
[Telegram]
Department advised by American Embassy in London that delay in release of China prisoners is caused solely by shipping difficulties; and that Australian authorities have been asked to arrange passage on a British ship at the earliest possible moment in view of the time that has elapsed since the promise to release them was made. Take up matter with the Australian authorities in an effort to expedite the transport of these men.
Lansing