763.72/2374½: Telegram

The German Foreign Office to the German Embassy

[Translation]

29. Reply to wireless No. 3416 [omission?] of cipher addressed to Baron Burian. Germany and Austria Hungary will publish within few days declaration welcomed by Mr. Lansing, that hereafter enemy merchant vessels armed with guns will be treated as auxiliary cruisers. All neutrals will be informed accordingly. Corresponding orders to naval commanders not to be put in force before end Feb. Please inform Mr. Lansing immediately.

  1. Ante, p. 337.