File No. 763.72/2084
The German Ambassador ( Bernstorff ) to the Secretary of State
My Dear Mr. Secretary: With reference to our conversation of this morning I beg to inform you that my instructions concerning our answer to your last Lusitania note contain the following passage:
[Page 531]Liners will not be sunk by our submarines without warning and without safety of the lives of non-combatants, provided that the liners do not try to escape or offer resistance.
Although I know that you do not wish to discuss the Lusitania question till the Arabic incident has been definitely and satisfactorily settled, I desire to inform you of the above because this policy of my Government was decided on before the Arabic incident occurred.
I have no objection to your making any use you may please of the above information.
I remain [etc.]