File No. 493/11a.
Minister Calhoun to the Secretary of State.
Peking, May 5, 1910.
Mr. Calhoun reports the receipt of a dispatch from the consulate general at Hankow, which states that foreigners are being approached in Shangsha by Chinese officials relative to indemnity, and that vice consul general is following example of British and advising Americans [Page 344] to refer matter to consulate lest individual settlement compromise final one. Mr. Calhoun says the vice consul general wishes to know whether the legation desires these claims sent to Peking or whether consulate is to arrange settlement. Asks instructions on this point, and also wishes to be informed as to department’s attitude relative to advising Americans settling individually, without intervention of the legation or consulate, and asks, if claims are submitted to the legation, whether department desires to pass upon them before their presentation to the Government of China.