The Secretary of State to Minister Wilson.

[Telegram.—Paraphrase.]

(The department refers to Mr. Wilson’s telegram of 24th and says it understands that Turkey, although signatory, has not ratified Hague conventions of 1899, and is not represented in permanent court. Mr. Wilson is directed to inquire if under these circumstances Turkey, not having consummated engagements, can be regarded as a party and Turkish assent required to constitute unanimity. If so, embarrassing situation would be created prejudicial to powers who are parties in full standing, inasmuch as Turkey is obviously not in a position to fulfill article 60 or any other obligation of convention of 1899.)