Foreign Relations of the United States, Diplomatic Papers, 1932, The Far East, Volume IV

493.11 Ekvall, Henry/17: Telegram

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

Washington, August 25, 1932—6 p.m.

285. Your 993, August 22, 9 p.m., and previous in regard to Ekvall case.

1. The Department approves and commends the Legation for the vigorous action taken in this case.

2. In view of evidence of implication of Chinese soldiery in commission of murder, the Department desires that the Legation, upon the completion of Lieutenant Soule’s investigation, examine the whole case carefully and submit recommendations to the Department with regard to whether this Government should make any special representations to the Chinese Government, such as request for payment of indemnity and/or for special expression of regret and apology by the Chinese military as well as civil authorities. In this connection the Department suggests that the Legation may wish to ascertain what action was ultimately taken by the British authorities in regard to the Thorburn case (see Legation’s telegram 1050, December 7, 1931, noon)⁷² and inform Department thereof.

Castle

72. Not printed.