File No. 763.72/5248
The Ambassador in Russia ( Francis ) to the Secretary of State
[Received June 10, 5 a.m.]
1369. United Press representative here says President’s message available in New York and only awaits release for publication and has so informed Foreign Office. Minister of Foreign Affairs tells me he now realizes message cannot be altered and will inform me afternoon of 7th when will be given to press here which date I shall immediately cable. Since learning message not in reply to Milyukov note seems inclined to publish without waiting for British, French, and Italian replies to that note. Delay in publication has only served to increase public interest in the President’s message.
[Page 94]In yesterday’s conference Minister for Foreign Affairs said Government had ordered dismissed from army two regiments which had failed to obey orders to go to front and had directed that the names of all members thereof be stricken from the rolls and read in all the camps and that such members and all dependent on them be deprived of participation in pensions or other emoluments and honors granted to soldiers and their families. This first decisive manifestation of authority gratifying: indicates Ministry becoming surer of its power, He also said that Guchkov, former Minister of War, is organizing proprietors of industries, or what socialists call bourgeoisie, meaning owners of industries and employers generally.