File No. 763.72/1764
The Ambassador in Germany ( Gerard ) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 17, 8 a. m.]
2234. Your 1664, May 13, 11 a. m., did not arrive until 10 p. m. last night. It was sent from Rome 4 p. m. yesterday. I presented it at 10.30 this morning to Von Jagow personally; he asked that he might read it himself as he understands written better than spoken English. While reading it he laughed and said, “Right of free travel on the seas, why not right of free travel on land in war territory?”
In confidential conversation he said that there would have to be a sitting of the authorities and no answer should be expected before Monday or Tuesday, but that he was sure Germany would never give up this method of submarine warfare. I am myself positive that Germany will continue this method of war and that it is only a question of short time before other American ships or lives are destroyed, and if that happens you say that United States will not omit any act necessary to maintain the rights which you have claimed for the United States and its citizens.
Your cables require two days or more to reach Germany and therefore, in view of your note and what I take to be the inevitable consequences, I hope you will cable me full instructions now as to all possible contingencies.