123 Stokes, William N.: Circular telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to Certain Diplomatic Representatives 80
ReDepcirtels Nov 18, 10 A. M., and Nov. 23, 9 A. M., on Ward case, pls inform FonOff fol:
ConGen Ward reported to US ConGen at Peiping that at 9 A. M., Nov 26, Vice Consul William N. Stokes (who was in charge ConGen during imprisonment Ward) had been taken to court by Commie auths without warrant for hearing re “spying charges”. It was not indicated to Ward whether Stokes taken as accused or witness or in [Page 1022] other capacity. Ward was refused permission accompany Stokes. At time latest communication from Ward at 3:45 same day no further word had been received from Stokes.
In conveying above info to FonOff state Dept considers this new violation principles of accepted internatl conduct sufficiently serious to justify inclusion in protest to Commie auths or, if protest already made, subj further representations by Govt to which you accredited.