861.00/5676: Telegram
The Chargé in China (Tenney) to the Secretary of State
[Received November 17, 9:32 a.m.]
[From Harris at Novo Nikolaievsk?]
468. Vice Consul Hansen advised me from Omsk November 11th as follows: [Page 225]
“Kolchak left for Irkutsk this morning. Siberian retreat orderly and no resistance offered enemy. Many refugees, peasants and workmen passing through Omsk in open carts from Petropavlovsk and Ishim districts. Many refugees stated to me that they may die this winter fleeing from Bolshevik but they prefer death to Bolshevik rule. Cavalry, infantry and artillery concentrating in Omsk. Troops marching through the city north and south whole day. Opinion is divided concerning fall of Omsk.
Very little rolling stock left, apparently rich valuable property already evacuated. Weather continues cold; local papers still being published and space being devoted mostly to support of Kolchak and army.
Will leave Omsk with the British railroads mission attached to the last general staff train.”