393.1111 Nelson, Bert N./37: Telegram
The Consul General at Hankow (Lockhart) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 8—10:25 a.m.]
[130.] My 129, December 5, noon. The following telegram has been sent to the Legation:
“December 8, 2 p.m. The two servants referred to in my December 5, 11 a.m., returned to Hankow Saturday night, having succeeded in getting as far as 50 li east of Hwayuan. They report having seen heavy firing by Government troops on communist army and stated that Government forces refused to let them penetrate mile zone. One of the servants was searched by military but the other who had money secreted in his clothing was not searched. Dr. Skinsnes telegraphed on yesterday that the two servants with the money should proceed at once to Sinyangchow, where it is believed arrangements can be made for them to reach Nelson and Tvedt. The two servants left for Sinyangchow this morning as requested. I have telegraphed Dr. Skinsnes stating that I am prepared to send a consular officer to Sinyangchow tomorrow if he wishes me to do so to cooperate with him and advise in connection with effecting release of the captives. Repeated to Department.”