393.1111 Kreutzin, Mathias/8: Telegram
The Consul General at Hankow (Lockhart) to the Secretary of State
[Received November 13—9:15 a.m.]
64. My 63, November 9, noon. Local Chinese authorities claim to be making every effort to release Reverend Kreutzin by a military expedition against the bandits who are composed of a band of Anhwei troops formerly belonging to General Fang Cheng-wu who recently [Page 485] revolted against Nanking. The release of Reverend Kreutzin will doubtless be difficult to accomplish, especially since the bandits have proceeded inland from Weiyuankow, where the capture actually occurred. I shall continue my efforts to effect release through Chinese officials.
Ten or twelve American missionaries are now concentrating at Hwashihkang, to which place the U.S.S. Panay is proceeding to afford protection.
Repeated to the Legation.10
- In telegram No. 996, November 14, the Minister reported to the Department his telegraphic request of the Chinese Ministry for Foreign Affairs “to make every effort to effect the release of Kreutzin at the earliest possible date.” (393.1111 Kreutzin, Mathias/9)↩