HSM
This telegram must be
closely paraphrased
before being communicated to anyone. (C)
The Hague
Date April 13, 1940
Rec'd 7:18 a.m.
Secretary of State,
Washington.
TRIPPLE PRIORI TY
112, April 13, 9a.m.
FOR THE SECRETARY AND UNDER SECRETARY.
The net result of this week's developments in their
impact on the Netherlands is that the situation now gives
every indication of being as serious as it was in the
week of November 11; in other words, the country seems
as close to the brink (*) German invasion as it can be
without being actually Engulfed. At two other critical
moments--i.e., on November 12 and January 20--the mere
fact of my having gone to see the Queen, even though no
one knew what I discussed with her (and apparently all
the more so for that very reason) had an effect which was
undoubtedly highly beneficial and understand that the
rumor is reportedly widespread in this
and neighboring countries.