File No. 860d.00/41
Memorandum of the Secretary of State
Dr. Reuter and Dr. Ignatius came to the Department this morning by appointment and presented to me their credentials from the Government of Finland. They asked that we give recognition to Finland as an independent state.
I replied that this Government was very sympathetic with Finland’s aspirations for independence and that we were disposed to recognize the Government there as de facto and that we sincerely hoped in a short time a stable constitutional government would be established.
I further said that the Commissioners must appreciate the fact that at present it would be unwise for this Government to take any official action in view of the disorder and confusion which prevailed in Finland; but that we looked forward hopefully to a satisfactory ending of these unfortunate conditions and that when that time came I should be glad to receive them again.
I also said that I was speaking unofficially and personally to them on this subject and that I was anticipating the time when I could speak with more authority.
The Commissioners said they were very desirous to see the President upon this subject and asked me my views as to the possibility of an interview with him.
I answered that I did not believe it was possible at present and that it would be, in my opinion, inadvisable for them to do so until the political situation in Finland was more favorable.
[Page 756]The Commissioners then showed me an address which they had been authorized to deliver to the President and I suggested to them that they retain it until an opportunity was offered for them to present it personally. This they agreed to do.