893.00/11279: Telegram
The Consul General at Hankow (Lockhart) to the Secretary of State
[Received November 5—10:35 a.m.]
107. The following telegram has been sent to the Legation:
“November 5, 1 p.m. A widespread distribution of troops recently arrived from Honan to areas overrun with bandits and Communists indicates that at least a serious effort is being made to curb activities of these elements. Troops in large numbers have been despatched provinces Kiangsi, Northwest and North Hunan and West and North Hupeh. Military authorities here state that Loshan, Honan, has been retaken by Government forces but no word has been received [Page 211] concerning Reverend Nelson. There is an unconfirmed rumor in Sinyangchow that Nelson has died of disease. Am seeking further light on report. Repeated to Department.”