File No. 893.00/2674
[Untitled]
Peking, July 18, 1917, 4 p.m.
During the fighting on the 12th instant Chang Hsun took refuge in the Legation quarter under the protection of diplomatic body; other participants in restoration movement took refuge in various legations, including Kang Yu-wei who is hiding in this Legation. It is understood the. Chinese Government will insist that the diplomatic body deliver Chang Hsun over to it for punishment and it may ask the several legations to hand over other refugees harbored by them individually.
I request your instruction as to the attitude to be taken by this Legation in reference to, first, the surrender of Chang by the diplomatic body, second, that of Kang by this Legation, particularly as regards the requirements of judicial process as a prerequisite to surrender of guaranty against punishment without due process of law.