File No. 763.72112/1059
The Secretary of State to the Consul General at London (Skinner)
Your despatch No. 396.2 Cable brief report how long practice of giving indemnity guarantee has been in operation and list of cases in which release signed. Mail full report. Ascertain from Charles Russell and Company, solicitors, Norfolk Street, their charge for opinion on legal effect under British law of this release and whether effective as bar to prosecution in British courts of claims for damages in these cases also whether they are interested in other prize-court cases except under their retainer through Embassy to represent Austrian interests, as Department may wish to retain them in other cases.
Ascertain discreetly and informally whether guarantee intended release British Government from liability if claims for damages presented before international tribunal. Confer with Embassy and report promptly.