123 Colling, Guy Thomas: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Stuart) to the Secretary of State
[Received June 23—5:11 a. m.]
1354. [To Shanghai:] Whatever outcome of immediate negotiations in compliance Department’s instructions Deptel 1259, June 22, repeated Nanking 727, we feel following aspect of general problem should be brought to attention director Aliens Affairs Office Shanghai at opportune moment. You should express concern at apparent threat to fundamental rights American citizens as evidenced by Chen’s ability to call innocent American before authorities new regime on trumped-up charge based purely on personal grudge against foreign organization. (Reur to Department June 2263 repeated Nanking 1292) you may say that I requested you to inquire if this practice is condoned by public authorities; if not, what assurances Americans, generally, may have in future that they will not be subjected to unwarranted, unjust molestation. You should add that both you and I are concerned over impression apparent denial fundamental human rights accorded foreigners by new regime is having on American Government and American public opinion; that American officials in China cannot help but be unfavorably impressed at apparent acceptance by new authorities of campaign of vilification, humiliation foreigners in Shanghai and that this will inevitably be reflected in their reports to US Government on responsibility, maturity of Commie regime.
I feel that we should react swiftly and vigorously at proper level to this careless disregard of American rights, not only on behalf official but private Americans as well.
Sent Shanghai for Cabot 747, repeated Department, Peiping 234.