File No. 763.72/4356
The Russian Chargé ( Onou ) to the Secretary of State
Excellency: I had the honour, by instruction of my Government, to transmit to Your Excellency, in my note of April 21st ultimo, [Page 49] No. 300,1 the text of the communication addressed on behalf of the Russian Government to the Government of the United States in regard to the pressing needs of the naval defense of the Arctic coast of Russia. In the subsequent personal interview with Your Excellency I had the honour to point out, according to further instructions received from Petrograd, that the Russian Government, considering this question as being of the most vital importance for the general military situation of Russia and her military efficiency, expressed the hope that the Federal Government would give the most serious consideration to the urgent appeal for assistance formulated in this communication.
I am now in receipt of complementary instructions requesting me to suggest to Your Excellency that in view of the connection of this question with the general naval cooperation, which may be discussed by the United States naval authorities with the members of the British mission, the Russian Government would greatly appreciate if Captain Mishtowt, naval attaché of this Embassy, would be given the opportunity to take part in these conferences with the object of giving all necessary informations and explanations with regard to the naval situation in the Arctic Sea and the needs of its defense.
Awaiting a kind communication from Your Excellency with regard to this suggestion, I avail myself of this opportunity to renew [etc.]