The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Great Britain (Page)
1908. Your 2517, July 23. Department understands requirement in Admiralty notice May 15 that neutral vessels bound to North Sea by northabout route must obtain from Admiralty special directions [Page 674] through their diplomatic representatives applies only to vessels sailing from British ports and not to vessels sailing direct from American or other neutral ports. Ascertain and report whether this understanding is correct. Have any American owned or chartered vessels applied for such directions through Embassy or been interfered with for failure to apply. Also notify Consul General.