File No. 763.72/5782f
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Russia ( Francis )
1. For Root:
The reports received of the addresses by the commissioners and of the very favorable impression made are most gratifying and the President desires me to express his satisfaction at the success which is meeting your efforts. If there was doubt of the genuine desire of this country to see the Russian democracy achieve its aims, your convincing presentation of the sympathetic attitude of the American people has removed it.
The President, while extending his congratulations to the commission on the skilful manner in which they are performing a difficult task, suggests that it is not advisable for members of the commission to speak of the terms of peace or of settlement which will be insisted on by the United States. The President is himself reserving all such utterances until very different circumstances arise, and hopes that you will pursue the same policy.
The matter of establishing an efficient agency for publicity is receiving careful consideration in view of your recommendations as to its desirability.