The Birmingham age-herald., 1917-08-24
OUTCOME OF MEETING OF NATIONAL COUNCIL AT MOSCOW TO DECIDE
Conservative Element of Country Trying to Over throw Socialists and
 Bring Discipline

RuSS1aD s crlt1cal internal S1t- uation, aggravated by the new German drive against Riga, threatening the capi- tai, is watched by officials here with grave concern. It became known today that official advices are closely in accord with press dis patches describing grave po- litical conditions.
 The outcome of the forthcoming extraordinary national council to be held at Moscow is awaited here with interest scarcely less than in Rus sia itself. The immediate fate of Russia, it is felt, depends upon it.
 Out of the great gathering in which the conservative elements of all sorts are expected to unite in an effort to compel the provisional government to throw off the socialistic control of the soldiers and workmen's council, one of two results is expected:
 STRENGTH OR STRIFE
 The formation of a strong centralized government capable of rapidly reorganiz- ing the army and resuming the offen- sive agalnst the central powers, or open civil strife.
 l. appears tiiat little can be done by outside influence, evei that of the American government. to help immedi- ately in the crisis. The problem was dis cussed today at a conference by Secre- tariey Lansing, McAdoo and Baker. It is understood that attention was given chiefly to the financial and industrial aid which the United States can and will give and the assurance of which is counted upon to strengthen the hand of the Russian provisional authorities. Ainba assador Bakhmeteff spent virtually the entire day at the treasury talking ever with officials the financial needs of his government.
 WOULD AID RUMANIA
 In connection with further advances of money to Russia, consideration also Is being given to the case of hard pressed Rumania whose troops are fighting with the Russians to stop the Teutonic drive in the southeast. It is understood that any loan which may be arranged for Rumania will be handled through Russia.
 GERMAN INTRIQUES
 German intrigues in Russia are known to bc exerting powerful influence to bring about anarchy. Just how they are playing their game in reference to the opposing clements has not been revealed. The organization of Russian conserva- tives, described as formidable. whose criticism of the provisional government S course is te the effect that socahstic domination has destroyed discipline and efficiency in the army and left the coun- try exposed to invasion apparently has not been definitely measured in strength in dispatches received here. It conn pines, however. the dismissed generals of the army, the bourgeoise. or consti- tutional democrats discontented Moscow
 
 whom demand radical change Tn ,no governments policy.
 KERENSKY STILL LEADS
 Opposing the principles of this combi- nation are the cabinet and the soctal- ists. Apparently holding the confidence of both factions is Premier Kerensky The conservatives, however. criticize him for submission to socialstic control.
 At the Russian embassy it was ex- plnir.ed that great results were looked for from the new arraneements for dealing with the troops through three composed of representatives of the government, commanding officers of the army and delegates from the army. The committees, it was said, are working to create harmony and the chief function of the government commissions CTS is to enlighten the soldiers on the objects of the war and political matters, and otherwise aid in restoring the morale. Russia's chief task now, it was deciared, is the transportation of sup ples md munitions and the aid expect sd m the United States will go far tcv I solution of that problem