861.00/6700: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the Commission to Negotiate Peace

2776. For Polk. Your 3546 August 7, 3 p.m. As regards repatriation of Czechs by sea I understand considerable suitable tonnage may be freed by the Army after August 30th but neither this Department nor the War Department has any funds of its own which could be used. I do not see how it is feasible at all for Czechs to join Denikine at present.

Rough estimate of repatriation by sea is about $250 or $300 per man. How are we to be reimbursed? If your understanding is correct on this point I suggest we may possibly find that Treasury has additional funds to loan the Czechs which could be used for immediate financial requirements. If you will let me know whether the Conference has any proposals for financing either through loans to the Czechs or otherwise, I will urge the President to direct the Shipping Board to provide at least some of the necessary tonnage for an early start.

The Department thoroughly agrees with you that the Allies share a moral obligation to assist in the repatriation of the Czechs. Reports from Morris further emphasize the absolute necessity of doing something to get them home.

Lansing