Mr. Dodge to Mr. Hay.
Berlin, December 3, 1902.
Sir: I have the honor to inform you that I attended the usual diplomatic reception at the foreign office yesterday in order to present myself to the secretary for foreign affairs. In the course of a general conversation Doctor von Muehlberg, the under secretary, who received instead of Baron von Richthofen, spoke of the recent events in Venezuela. He said in substance that Germany’s position had been explained, and was perfectly understood by the United States Government, and that all Germany desired was that Venezuela should not shield herself behind the United States from fulfilling her just obligations. He stated emphatically that the telegram was entirely incorrect, which was published by the semi-official Wolff Telegraphic Bureau, to the effect that three more German cruisers were ordered to proceed to Venezuela (dispatch No. 2153 of November 28 last). No such orders had been given.
In the Koelnische Zeitung of last evening it is stated that these three small cruisers are to go with the first squadron to Norway, and that they have taken aboard landing guns. Their fitting out for war, however, has not been completed, as during their two days in dock they took in little besides coal. No ships have received orders for South America, but all preparations for fitting out ships are being made at the yards. Two old dispatch vessels are being got ready to take the places of any small cruisers which may be sent abroad.
I have, etc.,