890d.00/254: Telegram

The Consul at Beirut (Knabenshue) to the Secretary of State

Druse force of about 1,000, and since then doubled, occupied Hasbaya without resistance small garrison which is first serious movement menacing Lebanon. From two to three thousand refugees Merjayoun district including several families naturalized American citizens have arrived Sidon and Beirut. I visited Sidon yesterday to investigate situation and organize measures for Americans, missionaries and the others there.

Shahbender is reported to have arrived at Mecca to bring about reconciliation Ibn Saud and King Ali in their local differences and persuade them to take part in the league movement involving North Africa and Near East and support for Syrian revolutionists. If he is successful the Metoualis, Alaregtes [Alaouites] and Rouallas and other Bedouin tribes will undoubtedly join the revolutionists. In this event situation in Syria will become most serious. On the other hand if present movement is not joined by the above-mentioned elements, the French with present forces and reenforcements now arriving may possibly get situation partially in hand with offensive scheduled for the latter part of this month but I am not optimistic in this respect. Also sent to Paris.

Knabenshue