File No. 861.77/311
The Ambassador in Russia ( Francis) to the Secretary of State
[Received March 1, 5.52 p.m.]
2410. In my judgment terms of peace make Russia a German province with good prospect of becoming ally. I renew my recommendation for immediate possession of Vladivostok, Murmansk, Archangel. Allied mission chiefs remaining here for present. Japanese, Chinese and American missions sending special train with some of their nationals and portions of their staffs to Vologda to-day to await orders. Wright, Armour, Ruggles, Johnston1 remaining with me; also marine couriers as anarchistic outbreaks possible. Phelps in Stockholm. Crosley and wife left yesterday for Stockholm, remainder of force with train. Impossible to ascertain yet how far Soviet action will be approved in Russia. It may lead to civil war, Social Revolutionists declaring Constituent Assembly be reconvened. I shall await further developments. Could only use my judgment in default of instructions.
British and French have started via Murmansk, many colonists and most of military missions. Allied Ambassadors meeting at Embassy daily.
I have [instructed] Stevens, Emerson force and railroad equipment be held in Japanese waters or Vladivostok awaiting developments.
- Earl M. Johnston, private secretary to the Ambassador.↩