File No. 763.72111Ei9/61
The German Ambassador (Bernstorff) to the Secretary of State
[Received November 23.]
My Dear Mr. Secretary: The commanding officer of H.M.S. Prinz Eitel Friedrich informs me that the officers and crews of the interned German cruisers at Portsmouth, Virginia, are to be photographed by an order of the commandant of the navy yard at said place apparently as a means of preventing further escapes. Captain Thierichens for obvious reasons before complying has asked for further instructions. I realize that the deplorable escapes of the past, although inspired by patriotic motives, justify strict methods of surveillance, but believing that effective measures already have been taken to insure [prevent?] further escapes I would appreciate it greatly if these officers and crews could be spared the humiliation of having their photographs taken.
I am [etc.]