File No. 861.00/2336a
The Secretary of State to the Secretary of the Navy ( Daniels )
My Dear Mr. Secretary: The President informs me that he desires Admiral Knight to return with the Brooklyn to Vladivostok [Page 47] for a visit in order to observe conditions at that port. I shall be glad to have the Admiral’s views of the situation, which is somewhat complex, and hope you will issue the necessary instructions for him to proceed. I believe his visit will serve to emphasize the friendly attitude which this Government has manifested consistently towards the Russian people, without regard to parties.
I would appreciate it very much if your instructions to Admiral Knight could include a request for his views as to what measures, if any, it may be advisable to take in order to safeguard from falling into German hands or serving German purposes the large quantities of supplies which have accumulated there. We have reports that German agents are commencing to be active.
The American Ambassador at Tokyo is being instructed to confer with the Admiral on the various questions in regard to Siberia which have arisen since his last visit and I hope that the Consul, who will receive like instructions, may also serve to assist him.
I am [etc.]