893.512/434: Telegram
The Chargé in China (Mayer) to the Secretary of State
Peking, November 1,
1926—1 p.m.
[Received November 1—9:10 a.m.]
[Received November 1—9:10 a.m.]
523. [Paraphrase.] I transmit telegram from American consul general, Canton, received after much delay. It appears to antedate October 29 telegram77 (my 519 of same date) sent to Inspectorate General by Commissioner of Customs, Canton, reporting regulations for visit and search to be in effect.
“October 29, 1 p.m. Your October 28, 4 p.m.
- 1.
- Verbal definition of word ‘suspected’ given by Chen is that it means persons under suspicion of smuggling prohibited articles, of being enemies of his Government (for illustration, persons employed by their Northern enemies and certain White Russians), or of committing all manner of actions that are unlawful. He gives verbal confirmation that the corps is not organized or in operation as yet. He says that the corps’ organization is intended to meet pressing [Page 895] military necessity and that its functioning will last only through the period of war and in no event will interfere with the Maritime Customs. [End paraphrase.]
- [2.]
- Referring to paragraph 5 of the regulations sent with Jenkins’ despatch number 557, October 21.78 Chen now states that this paragraph will not be enforced against foreigners enjoying extraterritoriality further than to arrest and turn them over to their respective consuls for examination and punishment as charged. Chen is preparing a circular letter in explanation of the orders to the corps which will be telegraphed to the Legation when received.”
Mayer