File No. 893.811/130.
The President to the Counselor of the Department of State, as Chairman of the International Relief Board of the American National Red Cross.
Washington, February 6, 1914.
My Dear Mr. Moore: I am sincerely glad to hear that the Chinese Government has consented to act through the International Relief Board of the American Red Cross in the matter of the conservation of the river waters of China, and I hasten to write not only to express my gratification but to say that, with the concurrence of the Secretary of State, I shall be very glad indeed to have it understood that the Government of the United States will give assurance of good offices and diplomatic support in behalf of the American contractor should he be able to agree with the Chinese Government on fair and equitable terms. Of course, it is no longer necessary to explain that these good offices would not go to the extent to which some Governments have gone in seeking to enforce the rights of their nationals in the matter of contracts.
Cordially and sincerely yours,