File No. 701.6261/7
The Chargé d’Affaires in Russia (Wilson) to the Secretary of State
St. Petersburg, August 5, 1914, 10 p.m.
[Received August 6, 7 a.m.]
[Telegram]
Saw Minister for Foreign Affairs regarding wreck German Embassy and murder dragoman, stating I considered Russian authorities fully responsible for criminal negligence; that I reserved to my Government liberty to request formal apology and complete satisfaction and reparation for loss of life and property. I demanded precautions be taken to prevent repetition, as I did not consider German life or property adequately protected and that I felt sure that same thing would happen Austrian Embassy after departure of staff. Minister expressed regrets and did not try to evade responsibility of Government. He mentioned treatment of Russian Embassy at Berlin and said 132 rioters arrested, would be tried by martial law and severely punished. Intimated that full reparation would be made for loss of German life and property. Hope Department will impress upon Russian Ambassador serious view American Government takes of matter, as I fear repetition with Austrian Embassy. Hopes for Americans getting away towards end of week brighter. Proclamation forbidding all street demonstrations and police ordered to take strictest measures. City seems quiet to-night. Council of Ministers met to decide about Germans; nothing definite but understand that they will generally be allowed to remain in country if they wish. English declaration of war received with greatest relief. Consul at Riga says banks refuse to cash drafts on Department and he fears he will be without funds.