857.0011/51: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Minister in Sweden (Sterling)
239. For Mrs. Harriman. Your 746, July 20, 1 p.m. Please inform the Norwegian Crown Princess that the President has directed that the United States Army transport American Legion leave New York immediately to proceed to Petsamo to take on board the Crown Princess and her party and bring them to the United States. The American Legion will arrive at Petsamo on or about August 5 but you will be later advised of the exact date of her arrival.
You may say to the Crown Princess that while everything will be done upon her arrival in the United States to meet her wishes, there is no possible way in which her arrival can be kept confidential.
The President desired me to let you know that he believes that you should return on the American Legion to the United States in accordance with the instructions already sent to you.
The transport will likewise bring back to this country such American citizens in Scandinavian countries as can be accommodated and as may not be able to return safely in any other way.