861.00/3923 b: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Commission to Negotiate Peace
475. For the Secretary of State from Polk:
Nuorteva, who claims to be representative of the Bolshevik Government in this country was brought in to see me the other day by McFarland. Both of these men are known to Colonel House and Bullitt. Nuorteva came here originally as representative of the Finnish Red Guard. Later assumed to act for the Russian Bolshevik Government. We do not know whether he has any authority whatever as this is supposed to be headquarters of Bolshevik propaganda. He is considered dangerous agitator, but has so far kept within the law. Apparently he is being very well advised. Nuorteva and McFarland were anxious that a message should be sent through to Lenine urging that he consent to the proposed conference. As to this telegram, I said I would send it to Paris, and if the Mission thought it desirable they would send it on. Nuorteva also asked that a reply be obtained from Lenine to him indicating Lenine’s attitude, and asking for statement of points regarding American attitude. I refused to send any such message and said I would not let him receive any message from the Bolshevik Government. The message which follows might in Nuorteva’s opinion be of use in influencing the Bolshevik leaders, but I send it without any recommendation.
“Am convinced that however strong your position is internally, you would gain internationally by accepting this opportunity to let the world compare your strength, aims and accomplishments with those of various Russian pretenders. Public opinion here is more open-minded and sympathetic than ever and would not regard acceptance as admission of weakness on your part. On the contrary, your willingness to place your cause before eyes of world as compared with obvious disinclination of your opponents so to do would make a favorable impression. Proceedings must, of course, be open and less remote place of meeting desirable. Public sentiment here as elsewhere would, however, under all circumstances demand and get full publicity. Therefore urge you to accept invitation. Signed S. Nuorteva.”