Bush Returns Gulf Aid Gift With Thanks

BEIJING — President Bush has sent a personal message of thanks to a Chinese citizen who gave his life savings--$1,900--to help U.S. soldiers wounded in the Gulf War, the U.S. Embassy said Wednesday.

The letter will be delivered to the donor along with his $1,900. The donor, named Zhang, was described as a mechanic in his late 60s from Yunnan province.

In the letter, Bush said: “I have decided it would be unfair to accept such an enormous sacrifice from you and have asked our consulate in Chengdu to return the donation to you, but your generosity and support are inspirational. . . .”