123 Colling, Guy Thomas: Telegram
The Consul General at Shanghai (Cabot) to the Secretary of State
[Received June 25—9:20 a. m.]
2493. Have just returned from second session with Chang Han-fu re Colling case. Chang cross-questioned Colling at length re case, told him he had done wrong in disregarding police summons, said that all foreigners in China must obey Chinese law and gave impression that with that he closed case. I had distinct impression that affair was a face-saving device carried out under orders. Chang seemed embarrassed at my presence and tried to cold-shoulder me, at one point rudely, to which I was forced to make tart reply. I answered Chang’s point about obeying law by pointing out that foreigners had every intention of so doing but that question in this case was whether Chinese or International Law applied. I twice said we must agree to disagree.
I mention this because my principal concern at moment is that they may publish story that Colling apologized which he did not. I am optimistic that he is in no further personal danger.
Sent Department 2493, repeated Nanking 1353.