File No. 861.00/610
The Ambassador in Russia ( Francis) to the Secretary of State
[Received October 26, 6.25 p.m.]
1905. This cablegram pertains to conditions and may contain several subjects. Kerensky’s speech in council yesterday eloquent, patriotic but was attacked by press because not firmer and charged as a step backward from his position at Moscow where he said that he and Kornilov both favored discipline restoration. His claim that the Russian Army freest in the world unbelieved but freedom of army undesirable if not imbued with fighting spirit. Am following Council of Republic proceedings closely and told Minister of Foreign Affairs to-day that thought council potentialities for good are great and merited careful cultivation.
Bolshevik demonstration fixed for November 2. [?] thousand workmen reported to have arms, organized and ready to obey Bolshevik call. Doubtful whether Government can command men to suppress outbreak which not certain to occur; similar plans heretofore not executed.
Minister for Foreign Affairs says council address on foreign relations postponed until Saturday. Skobelev named also by committee of All-Russian Council of Peasants as the only peasant delegate to Allied conference at Paris. He stated in speech to the committee that “fundamental task of representatives of democracy at the conference is to advance at all costs the cause of peace. The Allies must honorably and openly set forth the conditions upon which they are ready to make peace.” Stated furthermore conference should receive definite expressions from the Allies concerning annexations and contributions and the right of peoples to [determine] themselves. After affirming that the question of peace is seriously confronting all belligerents admitted “unfortunately our internal weakness renders our position at the conference held a difficult one.” Said shame of unacceptable peace would throw Russia back many years and such should be avoided by revolutionary departments who should state why Russia fights and for what she is ready to stop the war.