Folio 185: Finch to Harrington. Passenger from Stockholm who heard trumpet sounding...

Folio 185: Finch to Harrington. Passenger from Stockholm who heard trumpet sounding declaration of war by Sweden against Russia, sent from Riga to here to inform Osterman. He communicated the news to the Regent, who thought it only shipnews or Osterman alarming her, to defer answer insisted on by Dresden. Later despatches arrived from Count Gyllenborg to Lagerflycht the Swedish secretary and also from Bestuzev confirming Declaration of War. Russian subjects and effects would be inviolable until able to leave. Bestuzev wrote that to prevent insults to him a guard had been provided and Lagerflycht's guard here was changed to one of the Simonowski guards. Later Lagerflycht asked Osterman if his appointment to dine with de la Chetardie would present any difficulty. He was requested to refrain from keeping it, but could if he so wished receive any Foreign minister or friends at his own establishment. Osterman sent for me after three weeks silence and reported the Declaration of War from Sweden in 6 articles. The observations on the articles of the treaty discussed and various alterations wanted by Osterman to which I could not agree, having no orders. Osterman then complained that he had no knowledge of HM's negotiations with Queen of Hungary and King of Prussia. Informed him that I could disclose these negotiations as the papers were in my pocket but that I considered our treaty paramount, and as he was usually too busy to discuss that, I imagined him too busy for the others; which he replied he was and I hoped therefore he would complain no more of lack of cummunication. Explained HM's concern that Russia should support Pragmatic Sanction and to furnish military assistance to the Alliance. Osterman evasive. Russia probably will be too preoccupied in conflict with Sweden. Botta believes however that Russia will not risk isolation but fears she will be obliged to ally with Prussia for fear of Swedish invasion of Livonia and Courland. Argument about treaty. Russia cannot expect English squadron unless she sends troops to aid HM Russian fleet not seaworthy and insufficientcy of sailors. French ambassador now prepared to have audience with Regent, presumably either to take his leave with dignity or to [offer] or seek mediation. Field Marshal Lacy to join army after tomorrow's birthday celebrations. Dated St Petersburg, 11 Aug 1741.

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