File No. 763.72/11205
The Minister in Persia ( Caldwell) to the Secretary of State
[Received September 2, 12.30 p.m.]
Department’s confirmation of February 2, 6 p.m.1 Original not received. There is no reason to believe that there has been since 1915 any actual Turkish or German propaganda in this part of Persia. Only reliable report of such a movement was from northwestern Persia, Legation’s information which has been forwarded you—see my telegram of February 14, 6 p.m.2—and the reports of Consul Paddock.3 Department will observe that my report on the German propaganda referred to alleged happenings in the Caucasus. I am convinced that the Persian Cabinet of that date was quite truly neutral, that the withdrawal of British forces was sought in good faith and not for the purpose of aiding Germany.
Persia hopes from America moral support and financial aid and a firm stand for Persia’s independence, integrity and her permission of [participating] when peace conference convenes.
The policy of the United States Government, as it was outlined by Department’s telegram January 24, 10 a.m.,4 has greatly enhanced American prestige in Persia. Department’s telegram 30, March 12, 6 p.m.5 Legation here has been unable to procure any further detailed report or any information which has not already been forwarded.