Recognize Russia?

One day, in Paris, it was mooted that France was going to recognize Russia. The next day, recognition was a sure thing. The day after, the date for the event was set; and, as minute succeeded minute and hours became days, the time for recognition of the Moscow autocrats became more imminent. At last, the great day dawned; but the French Government was silent. A hitch had occurred--a decision would later be announced--only a brief delay--were the explanations given.

Thousands of Russian royalists in France became alarmed over the recognition rumors, thought they might be forced either to return to Russia or to become French citizens. Basile Makakov, one time Russian Ambassador to France, called upon Premier Herriot and was assured by the latter that the status of Russians living on French soil would remain unaltered and would not, under any circumstances, become the subject of conversations between France and Soviet Russia.