123 Ward, Angus I.: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Consul General at Peiping (Clubb)
750. Reurtel 1839 Oct 28, you shld query Stokes at Mukden present situation Ward and other employees removed by police and whether yet released, requesting you be informed continuously all developments, and rpt Dept at once all info recd.
You shld also immed ask for appointment with Chou En-lai or other high official dealing with Fon affairs to make oral representations, quoting info recd from Amer Cons official at Mukden and Chi press reports that Ward and other employees removed by police. Request authoritative info for transmission ur Govt and inquire specifically whether Ward and other employees still held and if so where.
You shld then point out salient facts in this case along lines ur 1601 Sep 23, stressing isolation of staff in Cons compounds for nearly a year, US Govt’s decision in May to close Mukden office, continuous efforts since that time withdraw staff, specific assurances June 21 re transportation facilities and continued refusal, without extenuating circumstances, of Mukden auths abide by their assurances or even indicate what their intentions were. Point out in connection present reports that pretext for isolation of staff was itself based upon alleged necessity protect personnel.
Point out that in ur reply Oct 817 to Gen Chou’s letter you had taken occasion make approach to responsible Commie leadership which cld not reasonably admit of evasion. Arbitrary action by Chi Commie auths against Amer Cons officials at Mukden and their continued failure to provide facilities for withdrawal even after giving express assurances that regard is viewed by US Govt with greatest concern. Inquire specifically whether these actions, contrary to established principles international comity, are to be considered as manifestation of hostility toward US and its nationals in China, incl the northeastern provinces.
[Page 989]In conclusion state that US Govt requests and fully expects highest Chi Commie auths, in accordance international law and practice, take appropriate measures to cause Mukden auths release Ward and other employees immediately, promptly extend transport facilities for removal from Mukden of ail personnel Amer ConGen, with their personal and official effects, and afford them full freedom of movement in carrying out their official instructions in this regard.
In view urgent need of action you shld take this matter up individually. Other questions receiving Dept’s consideration.
- See telegram No. 1707, October 10, 3 p. m., from the Consul General at Pieping, vol. ix, p. 117.↩