855.001 Leopold/4–345: Telegram
The Ambassador in Belgium ( Sawyer ) to the Secretary of State
[Received 8:44 p.m.]
432. Reference my 428, April 2, 7 p.m. British Ambassador, General Erskine and I met this afternoon with Van Acker and Spaak. They asked us to transmit to our Governments their request (1) that immediately after the military authorities had found the King the Belgian Government be notified; (2) that the King be requested by the military authorities to remain in a place agreeable to him until a delegation representing the Government could call upon him; (3) the delegation which will call on him will consist of the Prince Regent, the Prime Minister, the Foreign Minister and Baron Holvoet. Holvoet is Governor of the Province of Antwerp and is now connected with the Prince Regent’s household. He is familiar with matters of protocol and can aid in discussing the detail of necessary arrangements in connection with the King’s return. It is understood by all concerned that no one will undertake to exercise any duress whatever upon the King.
[Page 120]This summary of the verbal request will at my request be confirmed in writing this afternoon.67
- A written request similar to the oral request reported above was transmitted by Ambassador Sawyer in telegram No. 435, April 4, 1 p.m., not printed.↩