701.6211/326½
The Secretary of State to President Wilson
My Dear Mr. President: I have your note of today in regard to the von Nuber case, and while I agree with you that we have ground for the revocation of his exequatur I cannot say that I think it is “abundant”. I have had the officers of the Department of Justice give me further information on the subject and am asking them to hasten the digest of other material which they have. If they do not furnish me with further evidence tomorrow I will act in accordance with the [Page 88] plan adopted—that is, send notice of the revocation of von Nuber’s exequatur. I hope though, for my own peace of mind, to have a little more convincing evidence on the subject.
In regard to Albert: My only hesitation in his case was that he has been a very valuable assistant to our people in obtaining from Germany certain articles of commerce—such as beet seed, potash, medicines, etc., which are absolutely necessary for this country, and which cannot be produced here. My own opinion is that he is a more dangerous man than either of the two whom we desire removed. At the same time, it is a question of policy whether he is not of sufficient value to our industries to allow him to remain a little longer. If you, however, think it well to act in his case at once I shall be pleased to do so.
I have not heard that von Papen had departed. It is possibly so and I have no doubt that his services will be amply rewarded—in case he reaches Germany.
Faithfully yours,