File No. 861.00/2175

The Ambassador in Russia (Francis) to the Secretary of State

[Telegram]

297. Civil authorities Duma Archangel arrested, taken through Vologda en route Moscow; Vologda Duma also threatened for failure to execute orders of central Soviet government.

Shooting of Admiral Peplumasny yesterday arouses deep indignation and likely will cause sailors mutiny; bitterness augmented by ordering return Black Sea Fleet to Sevastopol on German dictation and consequent destruction many Russian war vessels. Numerous manifestations of Bolshevik desperation.

[Omission] says has been promised locomotives and equipment to move men and munitions from Archangel south if given two weeks’ notice.

[Page 489]

Cole reports that American, British, French Consuls [received] local official communication ordering withdrawal war vessels and prohibiting further arrivals. I instructed him make no reply whatever.

Francis