811.2222/493a
The Secretary of State to President Wilson
My Dear Mr. President: The lack of a definite rule as to the drafting of aliens is causing me extreme embarrassment. I am daily besieged with the diplomatic representatives of countries with which we are at peace begging me to define our policy so that they can reply to the large number of letters of appeal which they are receiving. This has been going on for some time but as September 1st approaches the representatives are growing more and more insistent on a statement. In fact they begin to show considerable resentment at not being told what the authorities intend to do.
I have sent you several communications on this subject and hesitate on that account to write again, but as there is a measure of justice in the complaint that we have not stated our policy although aliens are being examined for service by the military authorities, I feel it my duty to call the matter to your attention.
Faithfully yours,