760m.6111/51
The Minister in Lithuania (Norem) to the Secretary of State
[Received November 14.]
Sir: I have the honor to report that on Wednesday morning, October 18, 1939, I called upon Mr. Kazys Bizauskas, Vice Prime Minister, to determine various facts concerning the Vilna question which were not entirely clear in my mind.
As to their definite plans, he stated that some 30,000 Lithuanian troops were ready for the occupation of the Territory when all was in readiness. He stated that the old demarcation line would be hermetically [Page 972] sealed and that the new area would be occupied by stages and a thorough check of all resources, people, etc. made. If anything that might be considered a permanent fixture had been removed by the Russians, a complete check would be at hand so that a later claim might be lodged with the Moscow authorities. This work would take some time if it was to be done right and Mr. Bizauskas estimated that from four to six months would be required before the territory would be completely assimilated into the economy of Lithuania. In the meantime, a separate government under a Governor will be set up. It is possible that Mr. Bizauskas will assume this post though nothing definite has been decided.
Mr. Bizauskas stated confidentially that they had heard many reports concerning the activities of the Russian troops which they did not wish to let the public know about since it might conceivably hurt their relations with the U. S. S. R. at this juncture of the exchange. Reports filtered through of the Russian troops removing all telephone and telegraph wires, underground cables, etc. with the view of their shipment back to Russia. It was an old story of the Russian despoiling so well known to the people of this part of the world. Mr. Bizauskas said that if entirely true, the reports should show conditions reminiscent of the World War. It was also true that stocks of food, jewelry, wares of all kinds, had been purchased by the Russian troopers with roubles. So eager were the troopers to obtain something for their rouble that they cleaned out most of the Vilna stores.
The Lithuanian Government has made preparation to take care of the financial needs of the newly acquired Territory. This, however, will be accomplished gradually and in stages together with the reestablishment of lines of communication, etc. Mr. Bizauskas seemed quite intent on emphasizing that the work would be undertaken gradually. Each section of the Territory will be cleaned up very thoroughly and added to Lithuania. In the meantime, Lithuanian soldiers will guard the outer frontier until replaced by frontier guards while the demarcation line gradually advances over the new territory. Certain matters, such as communication lines, post, etc. might conceivably be rushed so that the general matters of territorial administration are better cared for.
In the matter of population to be added, Mr. Bizauskas stated that there were approximately 450,000 people, although this estimate might be enlarged eventually if reports are true that many refugees have slipped through the lines and found hiding places within the territory. This number divides according to nationality into roughly: 75,000 Lithuanians, 100,000 Poles, 275,000–300,000 Russians and Jews, with the latter in the majority. Mr. Bizauskas added, however, that many of the people in this section were of such a low grade of intelligence [Page 973] that they answered questions very foolishly. On being asked their religion they were wont to say: Orthodox. On being asked their nationality they answered: Catholic. If pressed as to whether they were Russians, Lithuanians, Poles, they would answer: “I was born here”. Also it is true that many who were formerly counted as good Poles are now good Lithuanians since they have a sort of double nationality. As he emphasized the point that they were queer people, I silently agreed. He recounted a story of how he had been engaged in his work as Minister of Education in the early days of Lithuanian independence, and had paid the salaries to members of the Vilna University. At the first payday, 76 out of 81 had answered questions put to them in the Lithuanian language by using it themselves. Shortly thereafter as General Zeligowski was approaching Vilna, the Lithuanians determined on paying the staff its due wages and only 4 of the 81 would answer in the Lithuanian language. Mr. Bizauskas added that this illustrates the breed of people to be found in this sector.
Notwithstanding, most Lithuanians gave vent to their pent up emotions and truly celebrated the return of the capital city and a portion of the territory wherein reside Lithuanians and other people who have moved in during the centuries. The nation is intent on making the territory an integral part of the whole and will cooperate as one man in this work. Only a few disgruntled individuals can be found who say very honestly perhaps that this additional territory should never have been accepted.
The Polish Minister has made his protest and departed. The Polish interests will be cared for by the British Consulate. I have had several visits paid me by a certain Polish Count Tyszkiewicz who very frankly tells me that Poland when reconstituted will oblige the Lithuanians by replacing the Russian garrisons. He speaks the mind of the Polish nobility and landowning class who will insist on treating the “inferior” people as slaves. One need only listen to several hours of such conversation to develop an intense dislike for the Polish upper crust.
In general, the situation remains about the same. The Lithuanians will await the good pleasure of the Russians and move in to the promised land when invited. I see no prospect of a sudden removal of the capital to Vilna but it is conceivable that such a move may be considered in six months time or so if conditions warrant. At the present time, the Lithuanians sense a spirit of resentment in foreign opinion and will not wish to bring this into the open in any way whatsoever. A move of the capital to Vilna might bring forth objections from powers not entirely in accord with the addition.
Respectfully yours,