The second question which was asked was whether or not our Government had ever been notified by the soviet government of Russia with reference to Bakhmeteff. and whether or not they had ever been notified that he was no longer ambassador for that government or for any government in Russia. On December 10. 1917. it appears from the press notices. both in this country and abroad. that "the soviet government of Russia notifies Mr. Lansing that it has dismissed Boris Bakhmeteff from its service. and that he is at this time a refugee and no longer representative of Russia." I understand this notice was delivered to Mr. Francis. and by Mr. Francis formally transmitted to our State Department.