861.77/868: Telegram
The American member of the Inter-Allied Railway Committee (Smith) to the Acting Secretary of State, transmitted by the Consul at Vladivostok (Caldwell)
[Received May 25, 12:14 p.m.]
322. [From Smith:]
General Graves May 11th notified me Russian commander at Irkutsk refused to allow Americans to guard railway Verkhneudinsk to Baikal citing authority Kolchak. May 13th I formally protested to Committee stating that this was affront to the United States and in violation of railways agreement. Members all are [have] sustained my views. [Having?] no knowledge of matter, General Horvath asked for permission to consult Omsk, which was granted, and he sent excellent telegram stating that both he and Committee sustained our position. Omsk apologized 23d saying that this was mistake and Americans were to guard this section, have barracks and whatever they desired. After having consulted General Graves we decided to offer Russians a part of our section in case Omsk apologized. Thanking all concerned, I offered to release a part of section if the other Allies consented. If acceptable Russians will take from Baikal eastward approximately hundred miles.
Russian sentiment more favorable to America past fortnight mainly due to Horvath. Have conversed with him very frequently, also others who now understand our position better. Japanese military propaganda less because undoubtedly see that attitude of leading Russians is changing. Committee will probably remove soon to Omsk. Smith.
Repeated to Tokyo.