800.014 Antarctic/301
The Secretary of State to the British Ambassador ( Lothian )
Excellency: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your note no. 501 dated November 17, 1939, in which, on behalf of His Majesty’s Government in New Zealand, you refer to the forthcoming visit of Rear Admiral Richard E. Byrd, U. S. N., to the Antarctic.
I take this opportunity to inform you that the President has appointed Admiral Byrd Commanding Officer of The United States Antarctic Service, which, pursuant to Congressional authorization, is about to engage in an investigation and survey of the land and sea areas of the Antarctic regions. In connection with these duties Admiral Byrd, together with other personnel of the Service, will shortly visit Dunedin on board the U. S. M. S. North Star, which may be accompanied by the U. S. S. Bear.
The interest shown by His Majesty’s Government in New Zealand in this undertaking is appreciated, but it is not anticipated that Admiral Byrd will have need to call upon the New Zealand authorities for any special facilities beyond those incidental to his visit to Dunedin. Should it become necessary for Admiral Byrd to request facilities which, in the view of the United States Government, necessitate [Page 16] action by the New Zealand or the British authorities, I shall address a further communication to you.
Accept [etc.]