File No. 861.00/367
The Ambassador in Russia ( Francis) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 20, 5.55 p.m.]
1299. Situation assuming different phase daily, but withal clarifying. Navy been from the beginning most recalcitrant element. Baltic Fleet insubordinate and defiant. Black Sea Fleet which loyal, courageous, sent delegation here which held public meeting to-day in circus auditorium where thousands assembled and I attended but was only Ambassador present. Serbian, Rumanian Ministers there, but other missions represented, if at all, by subordinates. Representative of fleet made eloquent talk declaring against separate peace and favoring offensive warfare, which most enthusiastically received. I was given first loge and spoke. Said America had begun to assist Russia notwithstanding German efforts to produce impression that Russia negotiating separate peace, which America disbelieves. Stated furthermore that we cooperate with all fighting against Germany, greatest foe of democracy, and consider this a struggle for human rights. Also expressed hope that as internal dissensions adjusted by formation of coalition ministry and representation therein of creative forces of the revolution and the country, Russia would now present an unbroken front and wage an aggressive warfare. My remarks quite responsively received. Absolute quiet prevails in Petrograd and disturbances rare elsewhere. Kerensky as Minister of War has issued order directing all soldiers to return to their regiments and declaring that all who do not return by May 29 will be considered as deserters.