File No. 811.142/285
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Great Britain (Page)
Washington, September 1, 1914.
[Telegram]
17. American Red Cross vessel sailing September 5 will stop at Southampton, Havre, and Rotterdam. Ascertain whether British authorities at Southampton will remit port duties. Vessel will coal United States for return journey and can bring home American citizens on condition that they pay to the Red Cross their passage money. Vessel named Red Cross, formerly named Hamburg of Hamburg-American Line; can accommodate 256 first-class, 129 second-class not counting 15 small beds for children, and 500 steerage. Red Cross Society feels that in absence of Hamburg-American office in London, American Express Company might be used as booking office. This use of Red Cross vessel on return trip would give much needed funds to society. Cable at once whether any objections would be seen to such arrangement for transportation.