File No. 861.00/1401
The Ambassador in Russia (Francis) to the Secretary of State
[Received March 30, 7.50 p.m.]
… Answering your 25,2 concerning railway men, certainly government would be [ready to?] guarantee same not be used in German interest, whether German agent or not, but willing myself to assume responsibility, consequently request they be sent Vologda where could not arrive before April 15. Duties not specified, as government ignorant concerning defects and remedies. Transportation situation deplorable, while Russia and the Allies consider railroads [Page 227] our special care. Men likely to be needed to save supplies from German capture if German advance resumed and Moscow captured, which not improbable. Furthermore, I consider exceedingly advisable to increase capacity of Siberian Railway for emergencies. Expenses and compensation could doubtless be arranged if thought desirable.
- Printed in full in vol. i, p. 488.↩
- Ante, p. 225.↩