861.00/6184: Telegram
The High Commissioner at Constantinople (Bristol) to the Secretary of State
[Received January 21—10:28 a.m.]
44. Following from Admiral McCully.
“1. Section 2. January 18, 11 p.m. Evacuation of wounded begins to-morrow probably to Malta to be followed by evacuation of women and children which is not yet decided. Total number to be evacuated about 20,000. This evacuation necessary not only for safety of those evacuated but because present feeling for safety of their families is causing demoralization of forces at the front. Recommend that such United States vessels as may be available assist in the evacuation. Outlook from this point of view for future effective operations Denikine forces not encouraging but most pessimistic views are usually found in rear of army. Denikine forces now still hold lines in vicinity of Tikhoretskaya, about 75 miles southeast of Rostoff and railway from thence to Ekaterinodar but Grozny is being evacuated. Apparently intention to hold Novorossiisk until evacuation completed and pending developments. The Crimea is to be held as long as possible, Perekop and Sivash having been fortified and naval vessels stationed on each flank. No report concerning happenings at Rostoff after its capture. Colonels Castle and Cox now at Ekaterinodar.”