File No. 861.77/187
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Russia (Francis)
1775. Your 1821, September 29. Willard replies:
Unable to send at once high railroad officer of kind you request. Stevens is considered one of the ablest railroad engineers in this country. It is suggested that he act as adviser to Minister of Means of Communication in Petrograd, and let Miller look after operations on Trans-Siberian which he is thoroughly competent to do. George Emerson, general manager, Great Northern Railroad, will leave for Vladivostok in about three weeks with force of 300 American railroad officers and skilled mechanics. They will give [Page 203] Miller the support he needs on Trans-Siberian. I recommend above arrangement and feel certain no better selection than Stevens could be made for particular place or duties you have in mind in Petrograd. Advise if this arrangement will be satisfactory.
Department concurs.