File No. 861.77/201
The Ambassador in Russia (Francis) to the Secretary of State
[Received November 1, 2 p.m.]
1925. Also for Willard:
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Minister of Ways of Communication, Stevens and myself had satisfactory conference last evening. Stavka trip abandoned. Stevens leaves to-morrow evening special car to inspect railroads from Moscow to Omsk, empowered to put in operation thereon his recommendations. Minister of Ways of Communication and entire Government pleased with improvement on the Trans-Siberian Railway and desire like improvement on above-mentioned [Page 204] road which permeates rich grain-producing country where harvests are immense. Minister of Foreign Affairs said to-day our commission’s action reported Council of Ministers, which approved agreement and Kerensky directed that [thanks of] Government be conveyed for the effective assistance rendered and to be rendered by American Railway Commission. Minister for Foreign Affairs and myself have distinct understanding that Stevens is acting in an [advisory capacity] to the Minister of Ways of Communication and that Council of Ministers will give required orders for execution of his recommendations. Such understanding has required of the United States diplomacy and perseverance but is worth entire cost and will be effective if orders of Provisional Government are obeyed.