File No. 861.00/1420
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Russia (Francis)
57. Your 61, April 2, 7 p.m.,1 and subsequent telegrams. Department has reports from Summers, also from Major Drysdale, military attaché at Peking, who was sent to Irkutsk, showing conclusively that prisoners of war in Siberia are arming and getting beyond control. This movement obviously imperils lives of Americans and citizens of Allied countries. Moreover, action of prisoners prevents assistance by Russian Railway Service Corps, or other friendly help from Allies. Please ascertain informally and report to Department what action is proposed to control present movement, which is gradually assuming serious proportions.