File No. 861.00/2792

The Secretary of State to the British Chargé (Barclay)

Memorandum

The Secretary of State presents his compliments to the British Chargé d’Affaires ad interim, and has the honor to acknowledge the receipt of his memorandum No. 1051, dated September 23, wherein it is stated that all the information at the disposal of the British Government indicates that it is of great importance to begin without delay training such Russian officers and volunteers as may desire to support the Allies, in order that the Russians may not lose faith in the Allied policy.

The United States Government has given due consideration to all of the provisions outlined in the memorandum and sees no objection in principle to the carrying into effect of the policy of the British Government. However, in view of the fact that General Janin has been designated as commander in chief of the Czecho-Slovak forces, and the possibility that his advice would be of great value in making the proposed scheme effective, the United States Government desires to suggest that action in the matter be held in abeyance pending his arrival in Siberia.