File 3852/1912 Pt 2 'Persia. Conditions in South Persia. German Documents' [‎286r] (203/280)

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pressed on me that Swedes are not so generally pro-German
as is supposed and one officer who has been accused of showing
his bias called on me to-day to say that he is of French origin
and has all his family ties in England and . . . .!) called pro-
German. All are probably anti-Russian.
It would appear to me a most unfavourable moment to
"" change foreign officers for gendarmerie. British officers are
probably not available and imposition of them on Persia at
present moment would make a bad impression. Task is too
big for an American officer.
I venture to deny suggestion that Swedes 1 2 )
and won to my side by pecuniary assistance. Distribution of
money could be made through legation and consuls as before.
Addressed Shiraz repeated Bushire and Basrah.
Telegram from the English Consul in Shiraz to the English
Minister in Teheran. March 5 th, igi^.
Tel. S. D.
To Prodrome. Thr. 5. 3. 15.
Knox, Bushire.
Your tel. 23.
I fully realise that moment is inopportune for change in
foreign officers of gendarmerie but I trust that if the Swedes
are to remain it may be impressed upon officers in Ears that
not only should they maintain attitude of strictest neutrality
whatever their own individual sympathies may be but that it
is their duty to discourage all pro-German and Turkish pro
paganda amongst their native officers and men and to take
active steps to suppress agitators and to ensure preservation
of order.
As regards future financial support I venture to express
entire agreement with Y. E’.s view. Whoever the foreign offi-
1 ) Word illegible.
2 ) not deciphered by O’Connor.