763.72/3965
The Secretary of State to President Wilson
My Dear Mr. President: In connection with the enclosed dispatch from Mr. Page, at Rome,17 which relates to the Russian situation, I have been wondering whether it might not be well for you to send to Prince Lvoff a message which would in reality be an address to the Russian people, expressing the confidence of the American people in the success of the democratic government which they have established and of our very sincere desire to aid them in their struggle against Germany.
I believe at the present time this would be a most helpful document to be published throughout Russia because of the very high regard in which the United States is held by the liberal element in Russia. Of course if it is to be done at all it should be done at once as I believe the situation is serious and the present Government needs support.
Faithfully yours,