File No. 861.00/2409
The Ambassador in Russia (Francis) to the Secretary of State
[Received August 4, 5.05 p.m.]
345. Local Soviet Archangel deposed yesterday with no casualties, so reported by Chaplin, Russian officer commanding anti-Bolshevik forces Archangel, to local agents commissaire Murmansk; Murman Soviet renounced allegiance to central Soviet about six weeks ago. Reported unofficially to-day that Allied forces landed Archangel not only without opposition but were welcomed by people with [Page 507] flowers and cheers. Trying to establish communication with Poole preparatory for a conference to learn his instructions and plans. Probably return to Kandalaksha to-morrow with Italian and British chiefs of mission.
Understood that Chaplin represents Social Revolutionary government, right and left, also Cadets and Octobrists and Monarchists who have formed organization and designated it “Center,” whose bond of union is opposition to Bolshevism.