File No. 761.91/56
The Minister in Persia ( Caldwell) to the Secretary of State
[Received August 22, 12.21 a.m.]
Your instruction of August 13, 6 p.m., and August 16, 5 p.m. New Cabinet has not taken action nor have they adopted any position nor made known their attitude on the question of abrogating recent attempt to annul Russian treaties and conventions, but on the other hand they are likely to procrastinate for fear of wrath of the populace likely to follow in the event of decree of abrogation. A Persian commission is investigating certain legal phases of the decree and will report. Local public sentiment favors action of late Cabinet. Confidentially I am inclined to think that decree may be annulled only if and when strong pressure is brought to bear …
I am reliably informed that Germany, doubtless in order to obtain popular sympathy here, and in her usual glittering generalities, has repeatedly informed Persia that she is ready and willing to enter into new treaty relations with Persia based on latter’s complete economic and political independence, but aside from this and that [Page 912] the real course of action is said to have been taken at the suggestion of Trotsky, this showed movement was instigated by Germany. Better class Persians favor course pursued.
Allied colleagues awaiting instructions from their respective governments; only protest so far is from Russian and Spanish Legations. It is generally believed that Central Powers will not protest.
Compliance with your instruction of August 13, 6 p.m., requires time but I shall investigate and report by telegraph at earliest possible date.
Southard left here on the 14th instant intending to visit Kasbin, Resht, Hamadan, Kermanshah and Bagdad. Communication with him very difficult but I shall endeavor to get in touch with him.