CO129-566-7 J.J. Richards- arrest as Japanese spy by Chinese authorities 13-1-1938 - 12-9-1938 — Page 16

2.

impounded Richard's passport, notified the Hongkong authorities, and Sent Richard in safety to Hongkong on board a British vessel this morning, provided with an emergency travel pass, and last night arranged accomodation for him at the Victoria Hotel,

Shameen.

5.

Richard alleges that, during the period of his detention by the Chinese Military authorities, he requested

frequently to communicate with me; that he was examined frequently both by individuals and by a military tribunal as to his supposed activities in the service of the Japanese, and that the judge of the latter tribunal threatened him with complete disappearance should he not tell the truth. On the other hand, Richard made it clear that, except for threats with revolvers

at the time of first arrest, a sentry at the door of his room, and handcuffs when passing to and from his room and the Military Court, he had been treated in every way and fed with the fullest

consideration. His cutward appearance bore out in every respect

his good treatment.

6. I learnt unofficially from Hongkong of Richard's arrest on December 14th, and thereupon asked for Richard's police

dossier which I received on December 16th. From this record,

there is no doubt that, since at least June of this year,

Richard has been indulging in spying activities on behalf of

Japan. On December 16th, I saw the Provincial Chairman privately, and satisfied myself that Richard was in fact under detention here by the Military authorities, and, being satisfică

with the assurances given to me that Richard would be in no danger of his life, or of ill-treatment, I decided that his cbnoxious and dangerous activities would be best discouraged by taking no action on his behalf, unless and until I was informed

officially