861.24/179a: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Consul at Vladivostok (Caldwell)
For Morris.
Graves reports you have approved his withholding delivery of rifles because of Kalmikoff incident. Graves admits Kalmikoff irresponsible. … This Government has formally undertaken to aid Kolchak with munitions, food and supplies and made rifle contract with Russian authorities here on that premise. Department feels very strongly unless there are adequate reasons to the contrary that rifles should be delivered in fulfilment of formal obligation and that [Page 516] Kalmikoff incident should be regarded as unwarranted action by unauthorized and irresponsible person, a matter which should be taken up with Omsk Government separately. Please let Department have your views at once.66