893.00/7645: Telegram
The Chargé in China (Mayer) to the Secretary of State
[Received September 15—10:05 a.m.]
408. 1. Following sent to American consul, Chungking, for information commander in chief:
“At request of British Minister you are instructed to extend unofficial good offices in behalf of British interests during temporary absence of British consul.”
2. British Minister explained that his consul at Chungking will be absent from his post for a short time as he is to accompany second British expedition Wanhsien in connection with release of two British merchant vessels still in the hands of Yang Sen (see Legation’s number 379, September 8, 5 p.m.).
3. British Legation informs me that while this expedition is to be sent, it is hoped that Yang Sen will agree to release of the ships so that no further bloodshed may ensue. British Legation however states that they are going through with the affair until boats are released by Yang Sen, either voluntarily or otherwise.