Office of the Historian

861.77/1029: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the Consul at Vladivostok (Caldwell)

Washington, August 21, 1919, 4 p.m.

For Smith.

Following from Stevens:

“August 19, 4 p.m. Japanese General Oba, commanding the railway guards Semenoff territory, tells inspectors most decidedly he [Page 573] will not interfere with Semenoff as that would be interference with Russian internal affairs. Everything points to a combination Oba–Semenoff to intimidate and prevent work, and antagonistic spirit more clearly defined than ever. I have just ordered inspectors out of all Semenoff territory as I consider lives in danger.”

Department regards such action should not be taken without approval of Inter-Allied Committee and has so advised Stevens. Please take up with Stevens and with Committee and report result. Advise Morris.

Lansing