File No. 763.72/1338
The Ambassador in Italy (Page) to the Secretary of State
Rome, December 29, 1914, 7 p.m.
[Received 10:15 p.m.]
[Telegram]
Feeling in Italy, especially among official and commercial classes, seems sensibly turning against Allies owing chiefly, as close observers believe, to constant vexations and interruptions by them of commerce, both directly with Italy and in transit to other countries. I understand a noticeable change is occurring for some reasons in other neutral European countries notably Switzerland, Scandinavia, Greece, Holland. Many Italian ships besides some American are reported to be held in England and French Mediterranean ports. Italy seems inclined to resent what is interpreted as efforts to force her hand. Italian press formerly warmly friendly to Allies begins to assume strongly critical attitude.