861.77/3753: Telegram
The Chargé in China (Mayer) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 9—8:50 a.m.]
476. American consul Harbin’s recent telegram to Department29 to effect that Ostroumoff and others turned over to Chinese procurator general who can keep prisoners in solitary confinement for four months prior to discharge or trial, and Department’s 237, October 13, 3 p.m. After careful consideration, in view of this new factor in situation, I consented to join with French, British and Japanese colleagues in addressing informal communication to Marshal Chang Tso-lin expressing hope on grounds of humanity that he would bring the prisoners to speedy trial, if trial is to tako place, and to permit Ostroumoff to reside at his house in Harbin while awaiting trial in view of the fact that latter’s health appears menaced.
- Not printed.↩