763.72119/36½

President Wilson to the Secretary of State

My Dear Mr. Secretary: Here is something which looks to me very dangerous. I enclose a copy of the telegram which I sent in reply and hand them both over for your thought pending an answer.

Cordially and faithfully yours,

Woodrow Wilson
[Enclosure 1—Telegram]

The Niagara Section of the New York Peace Society to President Wilson

We have an opportunity to raise a peace fund of one million dollars to be used in defraying expenses of a joint commission to be appointed by two neutral governments for the purpose of investigating immediately the cause of the European war and then developing a plan for negotiating satisfactory settlement. Said commission to pave the way for mediation. Will you kindly telegraph whether this project is going to meet with your approval in the interest of peace.

Niagara Section of the New York Peace Society
[Enclosure 2—Telegram]

President Wilson to the Niagara Section of the New York Peace Society

I fear the plan you speak of might lead to very serious results of a sort that would defeat your purpose. I beg therefore that before proceeding you will let me know more particularly what you have in mind. I would appreciate a letter.

Woodrow Wilson