File No. 861.77/284

The Chairman of the Advisory Commission of Railway Experts to Russia (Stevens) to the Secretary of State

[Telegram]

Endeavoring formulate with the head of Chinese Eastern Railway a plan to place contingent to give entering wedge. Former special commissioner Provisional Government helpless. Useless to attempt [Page 219] coalition with Bolsheviki . . . . We will be asked to advance funds for all expenses our men; also for same including their arms 5,000 reliable soldiers to guard line to Irkutsk. Your cable of 24th. Information given you nonsense, uniform is very necessary and advisable. Best that could be done if there is a chance would be for America to take over the operation Siberian Railway during the war. The move would be welcomed [by] 80 per cent Russian people. Cable address the United States Consul at Harbin.

Stevens