File No.493.11a/14.
Minister Calhoun to
the Secretary of State.
[Extract.]
American Legation,
Peking, May 12,
1910.
No. 17.]
Sir: Kef erring to department’s telegraphic
instructions of May 7 regarding the presentation of claims by American
citizens for indemnification for losses incurred at Changsha, I have the
honor to inclose herewith for your information my letter of instruction
to the consulate general at Hankow on this matter.
I have, etc.,
[Inclosure.]
Minister Calhoun to Vice Consul General Baugh.
American Legation,
Peking, May 12,
1910.
No. 36 (Cons.)]
Sir: Replying to your dispatch, No. 469, of
the 5th instant, asking for advice as to what may properly be
included in claims for losses incurred in the recent disturbances at
Changsha, I would say that although the ultimate decision will, of
course, rest with the Department of State, it is not deemed
advisable that any save claims for direct damages actually sustained
be presented. In other words, the actual value of the property
[Page 348]
destroyed should be the
basis upon which such calculations ought properly to be made. It is
especially desired by the legation that our nationals should confine
their claims within strictly legitimate bounds, and I will request
you to substantiate so far as you may be able all that may be
presented to you before transmitting the same to the legation.
I am, etc.,
