File No. 861.00/1420
The Ambassador in Russia (Francis) to the Secretary of State
[Received April 4, 6.59 a.m.]
61. Horn,2 Moscow, telegraphs military attaché here that England requesting Washington consent to Japanese invasion. I think this would be greatly inopportune and hope will not be done; may be that advisable later and arrangements should be made to act [Page 96] promptly when necessary. Now when I am discreetly endeavoring to ascertain sincerity of opposition to Germany by interrogating government concerning organization army, disposition of Archangel supplies and arming prisoners of war, and attempting at the same time to secure its good will by improving transportation and by declaration concerning separate peace, which Robins wired after publication was heartily approved by the Department;1 Japanese invasion at this juncture might result in Russia’s becoming German ally.
Stevens first replied to my request for railroad men that he was awaiting instructions from Washington, but as I have just received telegram stating units coming under Emerson, I conclude you so instructed. Have asked government indirectly to protect and expedite transportation thereof, which it will certainly do, having repeatedly applied to me through Robins and Riggs that men be sent; have also requested sending experienced non-political railroad official Vologda for conference. Offer to confine Emerson force to Siberian Railway, using every precaution against serving enemy interest.
Webster reports only 1,200 prisoners of war armed and they expatriated themselves and took oath of allegiance to Russian Federated Republic. I think Government’s original plan was to arm all accepted prisoners for resistance to threatened Japanese invasion, and intention was changed when invasion abandoned, and when learned if not abandoned we would encourage Japanese invasion. Situation delicate, requiring adroit handling. Allied Ambassadors inviting Japanese Chargé d’Affaires to-day.
Trust you pardon my activity apparently presumptuous but not intentionally, as considered justified by your 21, March 23, 7 p.m.;2 please instruct if misunderstood. Much depends on organization new army. Understand your policy of non-recognition, which am carefully observing as I thoroughly concur.
- Henry J. Horn, member of the Advisory Commission of Railway Experts to Russia.↩
- Soviet government? Cf. vol. i, p. 440.↩
- Ibid. p. 487.↩