File No. 861.00/2763
The Consul at Vladivostok ( Caldwell) to the Secretary of State
[Received 7 p.m.]
158. British Consul has presented discussion [communication?] referring to murder of their naval attaché in Petrograd and detention of British subjects in Russia and requesting my concurrence in British proposal that all known Bolsheviki leaders in this province be arrested and held at Allies’ disposal as hostages for good treatment Allied subjects in Russia. British Consul further states proposal already presented General Otani who referred it to his Government which replied it is willing approve provided Allies agree to it. I have declined to take any stand on question without instructions from Department.