File No. 867.4016/58
The Ambassador in Turkey ( Morgenthau ) to the Secretary of State
[Received April 28, 10.30 a. m.]
608. Over hundred Armenians of better class were arrested ostensibly to prevent revolutionary propaganda. Among the number is Leon Chirinigon, a naturalized citizen of Persian origin, whose American citizenship is recognized by the Sublime Porte. Have taken up matter. Their lives are probably not in danger but they are being deported to the interior. Movement against Armenians forms part of concerted movement against all non-Turkish and non-Union-and-Progress elements and indications exist that it will be followed by action against Zionists. Have also received unfavorable reports about Armenians in interior provinces. Colleagues and I are [making] strong efforts to prevent excesses and stop the movement.