645. Telegram 2104 to Geneva1
Washington, June 7, 1956, 12:37
p.m.
2104. For Johnson.
- 1.
- New York Times June 6 reported Chairman of Communist Party of Connecticut addressed letter June 5 to Mao Tse-tung stating “We sincerely believe that release of John Downey and twelve other Americans will contribute towards better relations between United States and Peoples Republic of China”.
- 2.
- Recent letter from Father Wagner to his brother stated “On March 17 we prisoners were all taken on three thousand mile trip lasting 25 days”. He mentioned visiting Hankow, Peiping, Tientsin, Nanking and Hangchow and being taken to see factories, hospitals, universities, farms and temples. This seems to corroborate report in Deptel 1941. Letter did not indicate which prisoners made trip.
- 3.
- Letter from Representative Dodd to Secretary June 5 states Dodd Subcommittee plans to start within next few days “investigation and study of facts and circumstances surrounding detention of United States citizens in Communist China”. He requests list of American businessmen who have been detained or otherwise prevented from leaving Communist China. Would appreciate your comments on possible effect such investigation at this [Facsimile Page 2] time on prospects imprisoned Americans, particularly if investigation involves public hearings and considerable publicity.
Dulles
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 611.93/6–756. Confidential; Priority; Limit Distribution. Drafted by Clough; cleared by Phleger.↩