File No. 360d.00/255
The Consul at Helsingfors (Haynes) to the Secretary of State3
[Received August 21, 3.40 a.m.]
73. German instigation still pressing Finland toward military Expedition against the Allies in Murman. Present Finnish government appears to be peacefully inclined and prominent Finnish people state that no aggressive act is expected before September 1. However, important conferences take place daily between the government and the Germans. Selection of Adolf Frederick of Mecklenburg-Schwerin is assured and forecasts of the future must be considered upon this certainty. England’s Murman note has rather strengthened peace party which is strong and objects lodging great power in a king. Germany attempts to counteract quieting effect of the note by declaring England’s’real object is to establish a British Vassal state of Murman-Archangel-Onega triangle with Admiral Kemp as viceroy. The same German propaganda states that local authorities in the territory occupied by the British have been transported inward, population forced into the army, and other outrages perpetrated in order to give the Allies free communication with Czecho-Slovaks. Food conditions growing worse. Germans realize hunger renders Finland more dependent upon them. Three hundred tons of cereals have been received from Germany. This has been exaggerated in the newspapers to 10,000 tons. In the form of butter, metals, horses, Germany has taken more than given. Indications are that when Finland becomes unbearably hungry, Germany will urge that the Allies’ provisions in the Murman can be [Page 806] had for the taking. Government has approached me again in regard to recognition of de facto government, proposing exchange of de facto consuls general. Minister for Foreign Affairs has expressed desire for interview. I think no harm could issue from such consultation, but suggest inaction until after the election king, and neutral character of the government more assured. I would appreciate instructions concerning this.
- Sent via the Legation in Sweden (No. 2676).↩