File No. 657.119/378
The Minister in Norway ( Schmedeman ) to the Secretary of State
[Received 9.21 p.m.]
610. The Minister for Foreign Affairs informed me yesterday that a telegram had been received from Nansen to the effect War Trade [Page 1152] Board had requested the latter to advise his Government to disregard the proposed basis of agreement handed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs by me March 18. On my inquiring of the Minister for Foreign Affairs what he thought of the proposed memorandum he stated that in view of the foregoing he had not read it carefully or submitted it to the Cabinet, but that from a cursory examination he considered it as rather hard. The Minister for Foreign Affairs admitted that Nansen has full powers to sign an agreement on any lines agreed upon between Nansen and the War Trade Board.
There is no doubt that the Norwegian Government is now more than anxious to conclude negotiation and that the Minister for Foreign Affairs in particular fears the direct political consequences of any delay on his own position. The dilatory tactics previously pursued have given way to an earnest desire to come to terms with us mainly because of precarious internal situation resulting from lack of supplies. There is now less occasion than ever for further concession on the part of War Trade Board and I trust no such concessions are being made. I am confident that Norwegian Government is prepared to accept any terms which may be deemed necessary to protect American interests. London advised by telegram.