China, 1923 Pao Tzu Ku Bandit Camp Hostage Mail. Cover endorsed "From J.B. Powell, Pow Zu Ku" by journalist who was captured by bandits on May 6th and held hostage, purple 3-line handstamp reading "This letter received from Paotzuku Bandit Camp and forwarded through American Rescue Mission.", addressed to the Weekly Review in Shanghai, China, franked with China 1¢ single and pair tied by Tasochwang cds's, "Shanghai, Jun 3, 23" receiving postmark on face; trivial faint cover soiling, Very Fine, a very rare marking from the American Red Cross organized messenger service for the hostages between Pao Tzu Ku bandit camp and Tasochwang, with only 3 or 4 such markings known. Estimate  $2,000 - 3,000. Powell, after sending this letter, was released with the rest of the hostages within a few weeks on June 13, 1923. $0 (Image)