121.67/12–1448: Telegram
The Consul at Dairen (Paddock) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 15—12:30 a. m.]
235. As Gogol due here December 16 from Vladivostok presumably couriers on it.
Moscow suggestion for trained Russian-speaking couriers seems excellent (Moscow telegram 2751, November 27, repeated Shanghai 29 [39?]). It certain trained persons can note much intelligence information of value each trip merely from observation.
Route [Return] trip Shanghai-Dairen averages 3 months. Consul has asked Shanghai (Contel to Shanghai 148, November 22 and 153, December 2) if it has requested Moscow Embassy apply visas for another pair couriers utilize next Smolny trip. As yet no reply. If Dairen must wait for each pair couriers return to Shanghai (whether Army or State) mail will be received at 3 months intervals. On such basis it wrong consider Dairen as effective route to Mukden.
Presumably Smolny due back in Shanghai about now. It hoped nothing prevents another pair couriers sailing on it.
History servicing this post [is] one of few monthly runs and then breakdown for many months at slightest change. It feared if Communists menace or close Shanghai port, another long delay may ensue because Smolny may stop.
Due good luck servicing Dairen via Vladivostok from Shanghai, perhaps Department might consider, in its present over-all examination problem initiated by Moscow’s telegram and of getting personnel replacements here (Nanking telegram 2361 to Department November 3033), if not better service it from Moscow via trans-Siberia to Vladivostok. If Soviets dislike giving permit use that route, subject can be revived by using Navy LCI or chartered ship.
Repeated Moscow 101, Shanghai 162, Nanking 118, Mukden 61.
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