393.1111 Nelson, Bert N./21: Telegram
The Consul General at Hankow (Lockhart) to the Secretary of State
[Received November 3—10:15 a.m.]
[106.] The following telegram has been sent to the Legation:
“November 3, 3 p.m. U. S. S. Luzon returned fire two trench mortars mileage 36 above Chenglingki yesterday.
Notwithstanding repeated representations, both orally and in writing, I fear that promises of Chinese authorities to effect early release of Reverend Nelson and Sister Ramos are most perfunctory. Troops sent east of Sinyangchow for the ostensible purpose of releasing Nelson stopped and encamped halfway to Loshan and have been there for several days on excuse that their forces are not adequate to cope with the Communists. I am pressing these two cases but I see at present no encouraging sign for early release. Repeated to Department.”