File No. 763.72114/2713

The Ambassador in Russia ( Francis ) to the Secretary of State

[Telegram]

1340. Ignatieff, former Minister Education, made president of Russian Red Cross by pressure, states great suffering among Russian prisoners in Germany and Austria, who number 2,000,000 and “are simply dying of hunger.” Asks whether our Government will permit Russia to buy there monthly “one thousand tons brank (scarred [war?] biscuit) and other food supplies such as fat, sugar, conserve, conserved milk, etc., and assist the transport of these supplies to Copenhagen.” Says Russian Red Cross negotiating with German Red Cross to obtain guarantee of the aforesaid steamers carrying such supplies. Says America will earn thereby eternal gratitude of Russian people and asks prompt reply. Think Rockefeller Foundation and Young Men’s Christian Association planning to furnish such supplies.

Francis