File No. 861.00/1416
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Russia ( Francis )
49. Your 52, April 1, 2 p.m. Department regards any protests relative to repudiation of loans as grave error. … Protest [Page 495] would not influence Soviet and would only aid German propaganda. In same connection do not give Soviet promise military support as requested in queries submitted through you and through military attaché. This Government is conducting war against Central powers to safeguard free countries, small and great, from domination of German militarism. Its purpose to assist Russia already made clear. Department concurs in your general estimates of Bolsheviki, and approves your decision to feel your way to certainty before making positive recommendations.