393.1123 Coltman, Charles/7: Telegram
The Minister in China (Schurman) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 22—8:05 p.m.]
502. My 492 December 13, 2 p.m. I have now received a reply from the Ministry for Foreign Affairs stating that the soldiers fired in self-defense as Sokobin and Coltman had first fired six shots at them which consul states is a lie.
Note further alleges that there was an administrative order prohibiting the exportation of moneys from Kalgan but as stated in my telegram number 495 December 15, 2 p.m. this had not been communicated to the consul or the Legation. Note also states that money belonged to Chinese banks but as previously reported this question was never raised at the time of the incident when money was understood to belong entirely to Americans. Note which is frivolous and unsatisfactory concludes by stating that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is despatching delegation to Kalgan to make an investigation.