3.

130

Chi Nien-hua) are handed over but I consider I should also hand

over those in possession of arms and expel others. It is only

by taking such drastic action that we will convinse undesirables

that they cannot use our concession with impunity.

G. Sir A. Clark Kerr's telegram No. 494 to you just

received: Japanese authorities were pressing for Wang Wen'

brother and chief of staff to be handed over when present impasse

with reference to the four men arose. Since then the matter

has been in abeyance but demand will undoubtedly be made in the

near future.

These two persons should in the Brigadier's and my

opinion be handed over, as they came within the category of

"serious crime" referred to in original instructions given to me (see paragraph E above) and it will be infinitely better to anticipate

demand than to wait for our hands to be forced. Such a gesture

would go far towards restoring amicable relations. I in fact understand from your telegram No.409 to Shanghai that I have Your Lordship's authority to hand over these men.

Addressed to Foreign Office No. 197 of June 1st, repeated to Shanghai No. 266 and Tokyo No.116. (Shanghai repeat to Tokyo).

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