861.77/2196: Telegram
The President of the Technical Board (Stevens) to the Secretary of State
[Received 2:38 p.m.]
In reference to the note of the Department to the Chinese Government 4th [14th] of July,29 every movement of the Chinese Government clearly shows its purposes to take railway regardless of Russian past, present, future rights; if it is successful no doubt can exist into what hands it will fall. I suggest Technical Board passing resolution promising Allied loan under restrictions. British representative personally thoroughly agrees with me but is ordered by British Legation not to officially approve as such action involves matters of policy; if deemed expedient I suggest London be requested to send him instructions to support resolution. French representative says that he has not had official notice that the bond issue has been stopped; if such is the case he will support. Russian representative as well as Russian members of Board of Directors would consent; the latter and the Russian manager have requested me to make such loan. Attitude of Japanese representative uncertain. Chinese representative and the Board of Directors as a body, being bulldozed completely by the Chinese, will oppose as they want nothing placed in way of their schemes; I suggest pressure from the powers will make them acquiesce. The situation is very delicate for me and I urgently request prompt answer.