393.1111 M Nielsen, Niels/5: Telegram

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

346. Legation’s 334, April 17, 5 p.m. Following from Legation to American Consul General at Mukden:

“April 18, 3 p.m. Your April 16, 9 a.m. If you deem such action desirable the Legation is prepared to assign special representative to assist you in bringing pressure to bear upon Japanese and local authorities looking to release of Nielsen. Please reply by telegraph action taken by you to date and results therefrom.”

Following in reply from Mukden:

“April 19, 3 p.m. Your April 19 [18], 3 p.m. I appreciate Legation’s offer but do not believe that such action is desirable.

Mrs. Nielsen reports that her husband was kidnapped from the mission hospital about 11 p.m. April 11 by bandits who had gained admission by one of their number asking for urgent treatment of wound. Two native male nurses were also taken but no property was disturbed.

The assistance of all local Japanese and Manchukuo authorities who have been helpful was personally requested and assurances of cooperation were received.

The Japanese military believe that the doctor was kidnapped by Liu Ching-wen for his personal safety in connection with the anti-bandit drive in that region as started April 15 against another group. The military are negotiating with Liu for his surrender and the captive’s release and have assured this Consulate General that these negotiations will be pursued to the limit and at least for another fortnight before resorting to military operations against him. They believe that captive’s life is not endangered.

Further details by despatch.27

These conclusions appear reasonable. This office is in close touch with Japanese authorities and is tactfully endeavoring to persuade them to effect captive’s release by offering lenient terms for Liu’s surrender.”

Legation refraining from action pending receipt of Myers’ report.

Johnson
  1. Telegram in two sections.
  2. Not printed.