123H331/144a: Telegram

The Acting Secretary of State to the Commission to Negotiate Peace

2084. For Haynes, Helsingfors.

Pending the establishment of a legation in Finland which requires Congressional legislation, and arrival there of a duly accredited Minister, you are appointed Commissioner of the United States to Finland with rank of Minister Plenipotentiary. You will please take early opportunity to inform the Finnish Government of your appointment as Commissioner for the time being, and express on behalf of the President and people of the United States, their hearty congratulations upon the achievement by the Finnish people of their national independence with cordial good wishes for the happiness and prosperity of Finland. You may also inform the Finnish Government that the Department has taken pleasure in informing Mr. Saastamoinen today that he will be received as Minister of Finland provisionally pending the return of the President when he can present his credentials in the usual manner.

During the time you act as Commissioner you will receive, in addition to your Consular salary and post allowance, a separate allowance for living and other expenses of representation of $500 a month to be drawn and accounted for as for purpose described without itemization. Upon the arrival of a regularly accredited Minister you will be transferred to another post.

Polk