File No. 861.77/377
The Minister in China (Reinsch) to the Secretary of State
[Received 6.30 p.m.]
The following from Stevens:
Your 30th [29th]. I understand situation and your wishes. Nagasaki units now organized ready for service anywhere. Present work on Chinese Eastern of little value unless lines west can be improved. Suggest may be advisable if way can be cleared to utilize entire Emerson contingent in Russia. But I must make clear to you that giving advice is of no value unless some power is exerted to make advice operative. This must be done through some head authority as otherwise brutal contempt by ignorant local committees will nullify all attempts to improve conditions. Emerson thoroughly competent to [handle?] any situation given backing, anybody helpless without. I will make every effort harmonize Chinese Eastern administration, now high class, regard very important to hold it neutral at least.