File No. 861.51/141
The Ambassador in Russia (Francis) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 2, 11.30 p.m.]
1239. For Secretary of the Treasury:
Answering Department’s 1359, April 28, 2 p.m. If I understand your message you propose forming commission for giving orders there for all [supplies?]. Such arrangement seems wise and is ac-ceptable to the Minister of Finance, Minister of Ways of Communication, Minister of Trade and Industry, with whom had joint conference to-day. They would greatly appreciate, however, our prompt contracting for 10,000 freight cars and 500 locomotives and our arranging for delivery thereof at Vladivostok, this being start on 40,000 freight cars and 2,000 locomotives. Their rolling stock requirements are urgent. Whenever such contracts consummated, Russian Chargé d’Affaires will be authorized to execute whatever form of obligation you prescribe and to draw checks against deposits. They still object to any intermediary between ourselves and Russian Government. Holbrook, representing International Corporation, here endeavoring to secure commission for purchase of railroad equipment and so informs me. Of course I am recommending no specific American firm but relying upon you for Russia’s necessities being promptly and fairly met.