Conditions in Russia

Plain.
Petrograd.
Dated July 6, 1917.
Recd. July 10, 9:17 p.M. 1476. Sixth.

For Richard Crane.

Mr. Mott and I have just made our third journey to Moscow. This time it has been to assist at the election of the New Metropolitan. The election took place in the Church of the Savior and followed the new form through delegates chozen by universal suffrage in the diocese. This form was also a reversion to the practice of the church in the earlier centuries and so was very impressive. The delegates met the day before and voted unanimously to invite Mr. Mott and me to take part in the proceedings on the floor of the church. Before the election Mr. Mott and I were taken behind the alter of the Cathedral and each one given with a very pretty ceremony a rare old ikon from the ikonastaf of the Uspensky Cathedral of the Kremlin. Lod Russians say that this ceremony is most unusual. And it is doubtful if it has ever occurred before with people not of the orthodox faith. Mr. Motts visit has made a profound impression on the minds and hearts of the Russian people and will be remembered for a century. Much in it recalled the other visit with President Harper. He returns home with a wider and deeper understanding of the present day Russia and her problems than anyone else who has come here since President Harper. He has seen a great variety of people and the wonderful sympathy and understanding has caused them to speak to him as I have known them to speak to no one else before. On his arrival home he would probably be willing to make a general public statement for the MONITOR. I personally am very happy about his visit and entirely content with the message he takes home. In the general anarchy prevailing in Russian affairs the church gives the note of perfect order not only in its church service but also in its very extensive organization. It is a comfort to follow the orderly processes of its evolution. Mr. Masaryk is also here. The commision bears messages from me. I feel that I should remain somewhat longer as my own work with much interrupted by my duties on the commission. The Russian ship is still in the trough of the seas and I should like to see her headed on her new course before leaving if more important things at home do not demand my return.
Affectionate messages.
Father.
FRANCIS