File No. 861.00/2391
The Acting Secretary of State to the Consul at Vladivostok (Caldwell)
Your 71, July 31, 4 p.m., and referring further to Department’s August 1, 6 p.m. The Department has sent no telegram to the Siberian government either through the Russian Ambassador or direct. The Department understands informally that the Russian Ambassador has received a telegram signed by Mr. Derber and to which the Ambassador has replied in his official capacity, but without the cognizance of or any authority from this Government.
In regard to the Czechs, the Department sympathizes with and approves of the purpose and spirit of these gallant troops and hopes to be able to lend them such material assistance as may be practicable; for example, inquiries are now being made as to whether warm clothing can be provided for the men.
This Government sympathizes with the desire of patriotic groups in Siberia to secure the restoration of order and the welfare of the population but is not prepared to assist any one movement or group [Page 324] as distinct from others. Please keep the Department fully informed of the movements and plans of different parties and the respective strength and character of following of each. Department insufficiently informed on this subject.