Mr. Jernigan to Mr. Uhl.
Shanghai, November 26, 1894. (Received December 28.)
Sir: On the afternoon of the 24th instant I had the honor to send you the cablegram which I now verify, as follows:
Two Japanese, four weeks’ trial. Informed not tortured.
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The cablegram was suggested by the variegated reports in the home papers about the subject.
Although the Chinese authorities have to date refused my request for information of proceedings against the two alleged Japanese spies, I believe that the trial was fully of the duration indicated, and was in conformity to the rules obtaining in Chinese courts. A letter from an intelligent foreigner residing at Nanking, where the two Japanese were executed, discredits the reports of their torture. Other letters from the same gentleman have proved so accurate that I am disposed to accept the reported torture as without substantial proof.
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I am, sir, etc.,
Consul-General.