393.1111 Nelson, Bert N./58: Telegram

The Minister in China (Johnson) to the Secretary of State

49. Following telegram has been sent to Nanking:

“January 31, 1 p.m. Following telegram has been received from Hankow:

‘January 30, 4 p.m. A letter from Dr. Skinsnes8 states definite information has been received that Nelson and Tvedt9 are at Changhsikang near Hupeh-Anhwei border and that they are both well and hopeful. Bandits are now demanding $2,000 worth of medicines and $3,000 cash for the release of one man and $3,000 worth of medicines and $22,000 cash for the other. Dr. Skinsnes continues to work through the military as I likewise do here but there has been an absence of sustained effort by the military officials to effect the release of the two men.’

Please bring this information informally to the attention of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with the request that the military authorities be urged to press this matter to successful conclusion.”

Johnson
  1. Caspar C. Skinsnes, American missionary.
  2. K. N. Tvedt, Norwegian missionary kidnaped with Mr. Nelson on October 5, 1930.