File No. 861.00/671

The Minister in Sweden (Morris) to the Secretary of State

[Telegram]

1003. I have obtained this morning the following information in regard to conditions in Finland. I am unable to vouch for the [Page 732] authenticity of this information but I believe it is in general based on facts.

Finland under Socialists who have sent out delegates throughout country to arrange strikes and take over local authority. Officials allowed remain under Socialist supervision. Bourgeoisie guards at first opposed by Socialists reported now to have united with them for maintenance order. Russian soldiers aided Finnish workers in dissolution of Senate and Landtag and formation socialistic Senate and Landtag. Strike continues except in some minor trades. Bourgeoisie resigned but watchful. Torneå controlled by workmen’s deputation of 300, leaders of which visé all passports. No international telegraph conversation allowed. Telegrams from south Finland and Helsingfors censored by Socialists. Russian garrison in Torneå in cause with workers. House examinations of bourgeoisie taking place. As result of strike frontier at Torneå closed. Travelers from Stockholm arriving Haparanda Friday refused entry Torneå, among them several couriers. Excepting supply trains connections with south Finland broken.

Morris