The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Germany (Gerard)
Washington, December 22, 1914, 11 p.m.
[Telegram]
867. Continuing Department’s 806.
Department in receipt of telegram from Constantinople stating that German Ambassador has informed Morgenthau he has received inquiry from his Government concerning deportation of British and French, Beirut; that he considers measure justified by military needs and so advised Ottoman Minister of War before order was given, and therefore will not exert his influence to have it changed.
Morgenthau reports also that Germany has absolute control of Turkish Navy; their military mission almost controls Turkish Army; that they have Von der Goltz in the palace and German Ambassador advising Cabinet.
Italian Ambassador told Morgenthau German Ambassador stated to him that if British comply with the request of Russians to force Dardanelles and enter Constantinople, he thinks massacre of non-Moslems inevitable. German Ambassador sent Morgenthau similar message through his second secretary.
You are instructed to say to the German Foreign Office that in view of the degree of control which Germany apparently exercises in Turkey, it will be difficult for her to disclaim responsibility if any general massacre should occur. We cannot believe that it is the desire of the Imperial Government to assume so grave a responsibility, and I, therefore, confidently hope that instructions will be sent immediately to Constantinople which will prevent the occurrence of a Moslem uprising or massacre of Christians.