File No. 860d.00/27a
The Secretary of State to the Minister in Sweden (Morris)
571. For Finnish Legation:
Presented credentials today to Secretary Lansing who, expressing personal views, said America recognizes that Finland has set up a de facto government. He also assured us of America’s sympathy for Finland’s aspiration for independence. President unable to receive us pending internal disturbances in Finland. Secretary Lansing advised us to wait until authority of Finnish government firmly established whereupon audience with President would probably follow and recognition discussed. Please transmit above to Finnish government. Reuter, Ignatius.