123 Ward, Angus I.: Telegram
The Consul General at Peiping (Clubb) to the Secretary of State
[Received November 23—12:46 a. m.]
2064. Talked to Mukden 0945 today.74 Ward and four others who had been arrested have returned to consular compounds. Failed confirm categorically but infer returned yesterday (this inference [Page 1018] supported by fact they were not back when I talked to Stokes November 21). Talked to Ward personally who reported as follows:
Court trial concluded. All five found guilty, sentence as follows: Ward 6 months’ imprisonment, 1 year parole, sentence commuted to deportation, Rehberg and Kristan 4 months’ imprisonment, 1 year parole, commutation to deportation, Tatsumi and Cicogna 3 months’ imprisonment, 1 year parole, commutation to deportation. Ward stated that in addition he was charged with certain financial obligations too lengthy to be reported at time. Obligations, however, include compensation to injured, severance pay and salary payments outside provisions existing FSR. Ward noted employees had refused perform duties since October 11.
Ward reported he had delivered telegram to telegraph office 1600 hours yesterday, telegram refused but same telegram accepted for transmittal this morning. Still unreceived here. Above named five are “up and about.” Kristan’s physical condition yesterday not good, shows improvement today. Tatsumi suffered from mental strain.
Ward opined it would be necessary for him clear up financial matters before departure. Desires appropriate instructions earliest.
Indications are Mukden in nonreceipt several Peiping telegrams, will check and endeavor supply anything missing. Will also send Ward copy Peiping USIS mediation agreement. Will of course transmit Department promptly all information from Ward re “financial obligations” as received.
Sent Department 206, Shanghai 1210, Nanking 1172, Taipei 40; Hong Kong to Tientsin by mail.