Letter from Field-Marshal Mannerheim to Prime Minister Churchill

Personal, secret and private

Yesterday I had the honour to receive through the American Minister in Helsinki your letter of November 29th, 1941, and I thank you for your kindness in sending me this private message. I am sure you will realize that it is impossible for me to halt the military operations at present being carried out before the troops have reached the positions which in my opinion will provide us with the necessary security. It would be deplorable if these measures undertaken for the safety of Finland should bring my country into conflict with England, and it would deeply sadden me if England felt herself forced to declare war on Finland. It was very good of you to send me a personal message in these critical days, and I appreciate it fully.