763.72/2328½
The Secretary of State to the German Ambassador (Bernstorff)
My Dear Mr. Ambassador: I have received your letter of today telling me that your Government had mailed to you explicit instructions in the Lusitania case.
It is to be regretted that these instructions were not telegraphed as the time occupied in transit by the mails may seriously affect the negotiation. The protracted delay in the settlement of this controversy, though due to unavoidable causes, is unfortunate and makes it increasingly difficult to adjust our differences.
I am convinced that you realize, as I do, that the tension in this matter is growing every day, that American public opinion is become more bitter and that this state of affairs cannot continue much longer without the gravest consequences. I fear that a delay of two weeks will be serious and a satisfactory adjustment will be well-nigh impossible then.
In order to avoid a situation, which would make the task of negotiating extremely difficult, might I suggest that your Government repeat the instructions mailed, by telegraph, in order that we may take up the case immediately? In order to make this course possible I am willing that the instructions be sent in cipher through our Embassy at Berlin and this Department, and you may so advise your Government if you agree with me as to the advisability of proceeding with a consideration of the case without further delay.
I am [etc.]