861.00/7512: Telegram
The Consul at Vladivostok (Macgowan) to the Secretary of State
[Received October 12—11:57 a.m.]
53. Fifteen thousand refugees from Habarovsk arrived here.
Robberies, murders increasing Vladivostok and inhabitants. Swedish consul’s country home plundered daylight, himself and family menaced. Consular corps probably will be asked to renew request to Japan to protect foreigners which was made by them when Caldwell was robbed. This request was based on responsibility assumed by the Japanese when they disarmed Maritime Provinces military forces. Without authority from the Department I cannot join in such request; please instruct. It has been informally suggested that the Allied Powers should return sufficient contingents to establish international police as the local authorities are powerless and are facing speedy bankruptcy. I offer no opinion.