File No. 300.115/3188
The Consul General at London (Skinner) to the Secretary of State
[Received 4.45 p. m.]
Department’s 3d. Prize-court authorities considering some method for rapidly dealing Ogeechee’s cargo probably through committee [Page 381] still existing which has power to release American goods shipped before war began. However, original expectations respecting this committee proved largely illusory and many such consignments even now are being subjected to searching inquiry. Ogeechee’s claimants should forward at once evidence American ownership showing clearly that title has passed. Many unsupported protests already received but are useless for practical purposes. Prize-court authorities skeptical respecting American ownership, inclined to believe that American buyers would not assume risks under order in council, March 11, but if American ownership clearly established and proof furnished that such ownership existed prior to March 11, deem it quite probable that release will follow as in prior to war shipments.