File No. 763.72/1251
The Minister in Portugal (Birch) to the Secretary of State
Lisbon, November 2, 1914.
[Received November 23.]
No. 50]
Sir: Referring to the Department’s cable dated October 28, 4 p.m.,1 relative to declaration of war by Portugal, I have the honor to state that on its receipt I at once had an interview with the Portuguese Minister for Foreign Affairs during the course of which he stated that the attitude of Portugal regarding the war remained unchanged, and while he expressed himself as anti-German in feeling, he personally hoped Portugal would not enter the conflict. He further stated that in his opinion the Portuguese House of Deputies would be convened in extra session Monday (to-day), when the matter would receive consideration, and should it fail to declare war, he stated that the Government would be placed in a very embarrassing position owing to promises which had already been made to the British Government.
While the Portuguese House of Deputies has not been convened to-day as anticipated, nevertheless the preparation for war continues. Yesterday, I witnessed the drilling of men of the first Army reserve who were called out for the first time on Saturday last.
In case of a declaration of war or any other event of vital importance relating thereto by the Portuguese Government, I shall promptly cable full details to the Department.
I have [etc.]