List of papers by topics, incoming papers chronologically under date of receipt

PART I: THE CONTINUATION AND FURTHER SPREAD OF THE WAR—EFFORTS TOWARD PEACE

The Attitude of European Neutral States—Conditions in the Central Empires—Informal Discussion of Negotiations and Terms of Peace

[Page XII][Page XIII]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
57 Dec. 16, 1914 [Rec’d Jan. 5] From the Minister in Switzerland. Effect of the war upon the internal affairs of Switzerland. 3
64 Dec. 17, 1914 [Rec’d Jan. 5] From the Minister in Sweden. Transmits statement of Minister of Foreign Affairs regarding Sweden’s neutrality. 4
1474 Jan. 15 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Reports a conversation with General French on war situation and peace proposal which he says the President has submitted to England at Germany’s request. 5
1489 Jan. 19 [Rec’d Jan. 20] From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). German propaganda in the United States has aroused British suspicion of U. S. neutrality. 6
820 Jan. 6 [Rec’d Jan. 25] From the Minister in Denmark. Scandinavian countries agree to act in unison and preserve neutrality. 7
1538 Jan. 27 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Italy will probably go to war, if Turkey moves against Egypt. 8
69 Jan. 18 [Rec’d Feb. 3] From the Minister in Portugal. Portugal virtually at war with Germany although war has not been declared. 8
Feb. 13 From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Had good reason for sending cipher message of previous day. 9
1587 Feb. 12 [Rec’d Feb. 13] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Suggests that Colonel House will be of great help in peace plan. 9
1579 Feb. 11 [Rec’d Feb. 14] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Germany would be agreeable to peace proposals emanating from the Allies. Suggests that representatives be sent quietly to Allied countries with this in view. 9
315 Jan. 29 [Rec’d Feb. 16] From the Ambassador in Austria-Hungary. Reports upon internal situation. 10
1208 Feb. 17 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Instructions to report in detail on military and economic condition of Germany. 15
1649 Feb. 19 [Rec’d Feb. 20] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Favorable moment for peace is passing with German victory over Russia. Asks that Colonel House bring peace proposals to Germany. 15
1648 Feb. 19 [Rec’d Feb. 20] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Report on military and economic condition of Germany. 16
1672 Feb. 23 [Rec’d Feb. 24] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Victory of the Germans over Russians in East Prussia complete. 16
1694 Feb. 26 [Rec’d Feb. 27] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Italy and Roumania will probably remain neutral; Bulgaria likely to join Germany; rumors that Japan will make separate peace and attack America; Germany winning; Allies must propose peace first. 17
15 Mar. 2 From the Minister in Greece (telegram). Greek authorities are divided on war policy. 17
1714 Mar. 1 [Rec’d Mar. 2] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Von Jagow invites Colonel House to Berlin. 17
209 Mar. 4 From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). It is proposed that neutral powers address identical peace notes to the belligerents. Italy refuses. 18
18 Mar. 6 From the Minister in Greece (telegram). Greece prepares to join the Allies_ _ _ 18
Mar. 6 [Rec’d Mar. 7] From the Minister in Greece (telegram). The King opposes policy of the Prime Minister; latter resigns. 18
214 Mar. 12 From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Austria is negotiating with Italy to gain her alliance. 18
548 Mar. 12 [Rec’d Mar. 13] From the Ambassador in Austria-Hungary (telegram). Believes that Austria is attempting to purchase Italy’s non-entry into the war. 19
1847 Mar. 15 [Rec’d Mar. 16] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Discussion of Germany’s retention of Belgium: hatred against the United States is far-reaching. 19
558 Mar. 15 [Rec’d Mar. 16] From the Ambassador in Austria-Hungary (telegram). Allies seeking support of Italy; Germany pressing for her continued neutrality. 20
216 Mar. 17 From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Neither he nor British Ambassador thinks Italy and Austria will come to terms. 20
672 Mar. 11 [Rec’d Mar. 29] From the Ambassador in Germany. Further report on military and economic conditions in Germany. 20
Feb. 28 [Rec’d Mar. 30] From the Consul at Leipzig. Report of internal situation in Germany, hostile attitude toward the United States, and potential influences on the outcome of the war. 22
229 Mar. 31 From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Semiofficial news article declares it America’s duty to restore peace. 29
1484 Apr. 8 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Prominent Americans are en route to a peace conference at The Hague. 29
1542 Apr. 21 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Asks that protection be given American women sailing on the Noordam for conference at The Hague. 29
2110 Apr. 25 [Rec’d Apr. 26] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Semiofficially stated that there will be no peace until object of the war is attained. 29
1472 Apr. 26 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions to arrange for safe passage of American delegates to the International Peace Congress. 30
1995 Apr. 27 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Steamer Noordam has proceeded to Rotterdam. 30
207 Apr. 29 To the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Instructions to keep Department advised as to status of negotiations between Italy and Austria. 30
255 Apr. 30 From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Rumors that Italy has declined Austria’s offer of the Trentino and has secured a loan in England. 30

Italy’s Entrance into the War—The Diplomatic Contest in the Near East—Further Information Concerning the Central Empires—Private Efforts toward Peace

[Page XIV][Page XV][Page XVI]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
137 May 1 From the Ambassador in France (telegram). Italy is reported to have signed agreement with the Allies guaranteeing to her territorial extension in exchange for military support. 31
256 May 1 From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Events point to Italy’s decision to join the Allies. 31
210 May 4 From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Negotiations with Austria are resumed. 31
263 May 7 From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Is convinced that war between Austria and Italy is imminent. Will take charge of Austrian affairs provisionally. 32
265 May 7 From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Probability of immediate denunciation of treaty with Austria and Germany as first step towards war, which can only be obviated by Austria’s acceding to Italy’s demands. 32
2068 May 8 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Foreign editor of the Times states confidentially that the Allies have agreed to cede part of Austria to Italy if she comes into the war within a month. 32
272 May 12 From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Rumor of division in the Cabinet. 33
273 May 14 From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Giolitti’s antiwar policy seemingly predominates. Ministry has resigned. 33
277 May 14 From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Rumored that King has refused to accept resignation of Ministry. 33
278 May 16 From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). It is believed that War Ministry will be reinstated and that war is probable. 33
159 Apr. 26 [Rec’d May 17] From the Minister in Roumania, Servia, and Bulgaria. Triple Entente is working to secure alliance of Bulgaria; latter now more favorably inclined toward the Entente. 34
279 May 17 From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). War feeling increasing, pointing to alliance with Triple Entente. 34
284 May 20 From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Vote for war in the Chamber and Senate almost certain. 35
285 May 20 From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Chamber of Deputies approves a defense program. 35
288 May 21 [Rec’d May 22] From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Senate confers full powers on the Government. War imminent. 35
293 May 22 [Rec’d May 23] From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Mobilization called and state of war declared in provinces on Austrian border and Adriatic. 35
294 May 23 [Rec’d May 24] From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Transmits Italy’s announcement of war with Austria-Hungary. 35
701 May 24 To the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). American Embassy is asked to take charge of Russian interests in Turkey in case of war between those countries. 36
296 May 25 From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Austrian and German Ambassadors have left Italy. 36
May 24 [Rec’d May 26] From the Italian Ambassador. Transmits Italy’s justification for war against Austria-Hungary. 36
304 May 27 From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). No declaration of war with Germany but German Embassy demanded passports. 39
85 May 25 [Rec’d May 29] From the Minister in Roumania, Servia, and Bulgaria (telegram). Roumania ready to join Triple Entente if demands are granted. Bulgaria waiting for completion of contract agreed upon with Triple Entente. Typhus in Servia checked; credit given to Americans. 40
694 May 25 [Rec’d June 1] From the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). Prefers to decline care of Russian interests and act for Italy alone. 40
732 June 4 To the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). The President desires American Embassy to take over representation of Russia in Turkey to increase influence for peace. 40
June 7 [Rec’d June 8] From the Minister in Roumania, Servia, and Bulgaria (telegram). Because of Russian reverses, Roumania may remain neutral. 41
733 June 6 [Rec’d June 9] From the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). Will represent Russian interests in Turkey, since it is part of the President’s plan. 41
312 June 8 [Rec’d June 9] From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Jane Addams reports on economic conditions and public opinion in Austria and Germany. Cooperation of the Pope in her peace movement is promised. 41
324 June 11 From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Gives views of the Russian Ambassador regarding German-American relations and predicts Italy’s declaration of war with Germany and Turkey. 41
328 June 15 [Rec’d June 16] From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Greece will probably enter the war. Allies still treating with Servia to cede part of Macedonia to Bulgaria. 42
927 June 17 To the Ambassador in Germany. Requests report on relations between Foreign Office and General Staff; the strength and attitude of Socialistic Party; the Bund Neues Vaterland; the attitude of the public toward the war; and the future of Belgium. 42
341 June 29 From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Italy will give her subjects time to leave the Ottoman Empire before declaring, war on Turkey. Bulgaria may join the Allies if Italy sends forces to the Dardanelles. 43
1200 July 13 From the Ambassador in Germany. Report on the points requested by the Department. 43
911 Aug. 5 [Rec’d Aug. 7] From the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). Ottoman Government yielded to ultimatum allowing Italians to depart. Interests of Italy, Russia, and Montenegro, except at Constantinople, are in his charge. 44
2734 Aug. 14 [Rec’d Aug. 15] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Germany has hope of capturing Russian Army; demarcation between parties favoring annexations and those opposing them, is plain. 45
646 July 30 [Rec’d Aug. 17] From the Ambassador in Austria-Hungary. Report on conditions in the Monarchy at the end of one year of warfare. 45
1173 Aug. 6 [Rec’d Aug. 19] From the Ambassador in France. Peace appeal of the Pope received coldly because he fails to distinguish between those contending for the independence of nations and those showing contempt of right and principle. Poincaré demands a peace that will guarantee security of Europe. 52
2651 Aug. 21 [Rec’d Aug. 23] From the Italian Ambassador. Sets forth Italy’s grievances against the Turkish Government and reasons for declaration of war. 53
1412 Aug. 23 [Rec’d Sept. 10] From the Ambassador in Germany. Transmits text of Chancellor’s speech before the Reichstag, Aug. 19, 1915, charging the Allies with responsibility for the war. 55
267 Aug. 25 [Rec’d Sept. 13] From the Minister in Roumania, Servia, and Bulgaria. If Bulgaria enters the war Roumania’s position between her and Austria-Hungary will be bad. Latter demands transit of ammunition through to Turkey. 57

Bulgaria’s Entrance into the War—The Allies’ Intervention in Greece—Conditions in Russia and the Balkan States—Discussions in Various Countries of the Possibilities of Peace: Informal and Private Efforts

[Page XVII][Page XVIII][Page XIX][Page XX]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
2900 Sept. 16 [Rec’d Sept. 17] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Germany and Bulgaria have signed a military convention. 58
130 Sept. 14 [Rec’d Sept. 17] From the Minister in Roumania, Servia, and Bulgaria (telegram). It is believed that an agreement has been signed between Bulgaria and Turkey, and that German-Austrian army will attack Servia, in which case Roumania will join Servia. 58
138 Sept. 24 From the Minister in Roumania, Servia, and Bulgaria (telegram). Bulgarian mobilization announced. 59
231 Aug. 31 [Rec’d Sept. 27] From the Ambassador in Russia. German influence and corruption of high officials cause reverses in Russia. Duma investigates expenditures for army supplies. Russia will make no separate peace. 59
404 Oct. 4 From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Russia’s ultimatum to Bulgaria probably means hostilities. Allied forces expected in Saloniki. 61
160 Oct. 5 To the Minister in Roumania, Servia, and Bulgaria (telegram). Requests opinion on Balkan situation and frequent reports. 62
59 Oct. 5 [Rec’d Oct. 6] From the Minister in Greece (telegram). Prime Minister resigned. Situation critical. 62
Oct. 8 From the Italian Ambassador (telegram). Italian Minister at Sofia and Bulgarian Minister at Rome requested to leave. 62
143 Oct. 8 [Rec’d Oct. 9] From the Minister in Roumania, Servia, and Bulgaria (telegram). Russian ultimatum to Bulgaria and answer thereto. 62
148 Oct. 12 [Rec’d Oct. 13] From the Minister in Roumania, Servia, and Bulgaria (telegram). Bulgaria has attacked Servia. Roumania will remain neutral. Rumored Greek Prime Minister, forced to resign because he failed to induce Roumania to join Greece in aid of Servia. 63
54 Sept. 21 [Rec’d Oct. 14] From the Minister in Roumania, Servia, and Bulgaria. Servia has decided to cede territory to Bulgaria; apprehensive of being overrun by German-Austrian armies en route to Turkey. 63
Sept. 7 [Rec’d Oct. 14] From the Minister in the Netherlands. Has learned that Great Britain will consider no terms of peace that do not include the restoration of Belgium and northern France. 64
412 Oct. 15 From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Reports indicate that Bulgaria has attacked Servia without declaring war. 65
3028 Oct. 16 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Was informed on Oct. 15 of war between Great Britain and Bulgaria. 65
1051 Oct. 18 From the Ambassador in France (telegram). Transmits text of declaration of state of war between France and Bulgaria. 65
Oct. 19 From the Third Assistant Secretary of State. Reports official notice of a state of war between Italy and Bulgaria. 65
154 Oct. 19 [Rec’d Oct. 21] From the Minister in Roumania, Servia, and Bulgaria (telegram). Bulgaria expects to gain more by joining the Central powers. Roumanian people for the Quadruple Entente, but King and higher powers favorable to Germany. Servia facing defeat. 66
217 Oct. 30 From the Minister in Switzerland (telegram). Rumored that Von Bülow is making offers to Italy to withdraw from the war. 67
1234 Nov. 3 [Rec’d Nov. 6] From the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). Minister of War sends message to the President that the time is opportune for peace negotiations. 67
224 Nov. 10 From the Minister in Switzerland (telegram). Repeated rumor that Von Bülow is trying to associate the Pope with a league of neutral nations. 67
70 Nov. 13 From the Minister in Greece (telegram). Germany and Bulgaria have raised question of neutrality of Greece if Servians, French, and English are driven back on Greek soil. French warn Greece against disarming Allied soldiers. 67
230 Nov. 19 From the Minister in Switzerland (telegram). Peace conference is postponed because no French or English delegates can be secured. 68
451 Nov. 22 From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Greece impressed by Allies’ suggestion of blockade and will remain neutral for the present. 68
297 Oct. 27 [Rec’d Nov. 23] From the Minister in Roumania, Servia, and Bulgaria. Roumania seeks to remain neutral; Central and Allied powers striving to gain her support. War loan will be made by Great Britain. Roumania refuses to permit Germany and Austria to transport ammunition through to Turkey. 68
178 Oct. 27 [Rec’d Nov. 23] From the Minister in Roumania, Servia, and Bulgaria. Speculations as to why Bulgaria joined the Central powers instead of the Allies. 70
Nov. 24 [Rec’d Nov. 25] From the Minister in Persia (telegram). Russia demands that Persia declare war on Turkey. Desultory fighting between Persian and Russian troops unauthorized by Persian Government; conditions unsettled. 71
464 Nov. 27 From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Germany, on overrunning Servia, will make proposals of peace, demanding control of Belgium, Poland, and Servia. Bulgaria to be given territory in Macedonia. Italy asks cooperation of Allies in sending forces to Albania. 72
115 Nov. 1 [Rec’d Nov. 30] From the Consul at Saloniki. Mobilization of Greek army. Occupation of Saloniki by Anglo-French troops. Forces sent to Servia. 72
Undated [Rec’d Dec. 2] From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Italy has signed London agreement not to make separate peace; will aid Servian army. Greece has given assurance of conforming with her agreement. 77
470 Dec. 2 [Rec’d Dec. 3] From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Italy’s part in Albania considered to be sending of troops. 77
3174 Dec. 2 [Rec’d Dec. 3] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Large peace demonstration in Berlin. 78
Dec. 3 To the Minister in Denmark (telegram). Department assumes no responsibility for activities of the Ford peace party. 78
Dec. 3 To the Ambassadors and Ministers in all European Countries and Japan (telegram). The Government is not concerned in the Ford peace movement. 78
1 Oct. 27 [Rec’d Dec. 7] From the Special Agent in Bulgaria. Discusses with officials the prospects of peace and the position Bulgaria will hold among the nations. 79
3 Nov. 1 [Rec’d Dec. 7] From the Special Agent in Bulgaria. Explains influences which decided Bulgaria in joining the Central powers. 80
4 Nov. 10 [Rec’d Dec. 7] From the Special Agent in Bulgaria. Defines Bulgaria’s attitude towards other Balkan states and relations with Turkey, including signing of protocol for the cession of Turkish territory. 82
382 Nov. 22 [Rec’d Dec. 8] From the Minister in the Netherlands. Résumé of official memorandum showing neutrality policy of the Netherlands. 83
197 Dec. 10 [Rec’d Dec. 12] From the Minister in Roumania, Servia, and Bulgaria (telegram). Austria and Germany arrange to buy wheat of Roumania. 84
201 Dec. 15 [Rec’d Dec. 18] From the Minister in Roumania, Servia, and Bulgaria (telegram). Defeat of French and English troops in Macedonia causes Roumania to lean towards the Central powers. 84
Dec. 22 To the Ambassadors in Great Britain, France, Germany, Austria-Hungary, Italy, and Russia (telegram). Colonel House is sent by the Presiident to impart information to our ambassadors concerning the attitude of this Government and to obtain the points of view of the belligerents. 85
268 Dec. 24 From the Minister in Switzerland (telegram). Switzerland will not propose peace until the belligerents desire it. 85
48 Dec. 23 [Rec’d Dec. 24] From the Minister in Norway (telegram). Ford peace party failed in its object. 86
508 Dec. 25 From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Lorillard reports rupture of relations between Austria and Albania. 86
204 Dec. 30 From the Minister in Denmark (telegram). Ford peace party had no effect upon public opinion. 87
Dec. 31 From the Consul at Saloniki (telegram). Following bomb dropping by German-Austrian aeroplanes, the British and French have seized the consulates of the Central powers and deported their consuls. 87
24 Dec. 8 [Rec’d Jan. 4, 1916] From the Special Agent in Bulgaria. Unofficially informed that the Central powers are satisfied with the territory gained in the war and are ready for peace. 87
26 Dec. 9 [Rec’d Jan. 4, 1916] From the Special Agent in Bulgaria. Discusses Bulgaria’s ambitions. Ultimate disposition of Servia is undecided. 89
[Page XXI]

PART II: NEUTRAL RIGHTS

Proclamations, Orders, and Decrees of Belligerent Governments Affecting the Trade of Neutral States—Attitude of the United States and Other Neutral Governments

the german declaration of a naval war zone (february 4, 1915): position taken by the united states—negotiations relative to the admission of food supplies into germany—use of neutral flags by belligerent merchant vessels

[Page XXII][Page XXIII][Page XXIV]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
1503 Feb. 2 [Rec’d Feb. 3] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Germany warns merchant vessels of her intention to employ war measures against English transports and shipments of ammunition to France. 93
1504 Feb. 2 [Rec’d Feb. 4] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Submarine blockade of England probable. 93
1519 Feb. 4 [Rec’d Feb. 5] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Germany declares a naval war zone and suggests a safe route for neutral shipping. 94
179 Feb. 6 From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Italian Government asks the attitude of the United States regarding the German declaration of a naval war zone. 94
157 Feb. 8 To the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Position of the United States on naval war zone not yet determined. 94
A 868/15 Feb. 6 [Rec’d Feb. 8] From the German Ambassador. Suggests U. S. representations to Great Britain regarding use of American flag by British merchant vessels. 94
A 874 Feb. 7 [Rec’d Feb. 8] From the German Embassy. German Government gives assurance that foodstuffs imported to Germany will be used by civilian population only. 95
A 876 Feb. 7 [Rec’d Feb. 8] From the German Ambassador. Transmits copy of memorandum of the German Government of Feb. 4 concerning retaliation against Great Britain’s illegal interference with trade between neutrals and Germany. 95
Undated [Rec’d Feb. 8] From the Netherland Minister of Foreign Affairs to the Netherland Minister at Washington (telegram). Netherland Government protests against the extent of the German war zone. 97
1611 Feb. 8 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Foreign Office announces that use of neutral flag with limitations is an established ruse de guerre and that Germany has no right to destroy vessels and cargo before ascertaining their character. 97
1163 Feb. 10 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Protest against proclamation of a war zone in waters surrounding Great Britain. 98
1105 Feb. 10 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions to call attention of the British Government to menace to Americans in use of American flag by British vessels. 100
1561 Feb. 10 [Rec’d Feb. 11] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). The campaign of hate against America will be increased if the Department takes no action against the use of American flag by the Lusitania. 101
10 Feb. 12 From the Minister in Norway (telegram). Scandinavian countries will send a joint note to Germany protesting against extent of war zone, also a note to Great Britain protesting against use of neutral flag by British vessels. 101
1631 Feb. 12 From the Ambassador in Great Britain Grey will reply to telegram of Feb. 10 after conferring with Cabinet and Admiralty. 101
1586 Feb. 12 [Rec’d Feb. 13] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). German proclamation will be withdrawn if England will adopt Declaration of London or allow food for civil population to enter Germany. 102
2567 Feb. 13 From the German Ambassador. Statement of the German Government regarding plan for supplying the civil population with foodstuffs. 102
1575 Feb. 11 [Rec’d Feb. 14] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram) Campaign of hate against America approved by Government. American ships to be destroyed without investigation. 103
1594 Feb. 13 [Rec’d Feb. 15] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Germany may propose that American merchant vessels be convoyed by warships. 103
1595 Feb. 14 [Rec’d Feb. 15] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Germans claim Americans are partial to England and are supplying Allies with ammunition. 104
A 1062 Feb. 15 From the German Ambassador. The new German method of naval warfare is justified. Describes British naval policy. 104
1134 Feb. 15 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Protests against placing American steamer Wilhelmina in British prize court. 105
1140 Feb. 16 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). German Government is willing that foodstuffs sent to Germany be distributed by American organizations to civil population. 107
Feb. 16 To the German Embassy. German assurances regarding foodstuffs for civil population have been communicated to Great Britain, and respresentations made for release of Wilhelmina . 108
1196 Feb. 16 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Colonel House is commissioned to act in matters where several governments are involved. Instructions to act only upon his advice. 108
190 Feb. 16 From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Comment of Minister for Foreign Affairs upon U. S. note to Germany regarding use of neutral flag by belligerents. 109
21 Feb. 16 From the Minister in Sweden (telegram). Swedish notes of protest sent to England and Germany regarding neutral shipping; Norway and Denmark to file identical notes. 109
151 Feb. 16 From the Minister in the Netherlands (telegram). Could Netherlands count on moral support of United States if a Dutch ship is sunk by Germans under naval declaration of Feb. 4? 109
164 Feb. 17 To the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Instructions to keep Department advised as to situation. 109
104 Feb. 17 To the Minister in the Netherlands (telegram). The Netherlands may count on sympathetic attitude of the United States in shipping difficulties 110
1617 Feb. 16 [Rec’d Feb. 17] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Unofficial suggestions for neutral shipping in British waters. 110
1668 Feb. 17 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). British may propose not putting food on contraband list if Germany will refrain from submarine war on commerce. Offensive language of Bernstorff’s note a hindrance to agreement. 111
1156 Feb. 19 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions to urge admission into Germany of food for non-combatants in exchange for concessions equally important to be made by Germany. 111
1621 Feb. 17 [Rec’d Feb. 19] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Transmits reply to U. S. protest against war zone in waters surrounding Great Britain. 112
1638 Feb. 18 [Rec’d Feb. 19] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Germany willing to grant River Tyne as port free of mines and submarines for neutral vessels which guarantee not to carry contraband. 115
1622 Feb. 17 [Rec’d Feb. 19] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). If England permits foodstuffs and raw material to enter Germany proposed blockade will be withdrawn. Otherwise safe routes around north of Scotland under convoy of war vessels can be arranged. 116
Feb. 19 From the British Ambassador. Regarding the Wilhelmina . Germany’s submarine warfare was begun before England’s interference with food for Germany. 116
191 Feb. 19 From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Italy has informed Germany that she can not tolerate any restrictions on high seas except in accordance with international law. She suggests concerted action on part of neutrals. 117
1674 Undated [Rec’d Feb. 20] From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Transmits Grey’s justification for action of Lusitania and use of neutral flag. 117
1677 Feb. 20 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). No hope of agreement between Germany and England regarding blockade and food. 118

proposals of the united states for an agreement between the belligerents restricting the use of mines, submarines, and neutral flags and for the admission of foodstuffs into germany (february 20, 1915)

[Page XXV]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
1169 Feb. 20 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). The same to the Ambassador in Germany. Suggestions as basis for an agreement that will relieve neutral shipping. 119
1656 Feb. 20 [Rec’d Feb. 21] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Admiralty requests information as to sailing of American ships in order to safeguard their passage. 121
140 Feb. 21 [Rec’d Feb. 22] From the Minister in Denmark (telegram). German Admiralty is resolved to starve England; the Government considers America unjust. 121
Feb. 21 [Rec’d Feb. 22] From the Netherland Minister of Foreign Affairs to the Netherland Minister at Washington (telegram). Inquiry and comment concerning reservation of River Tyne for traffic of neutral vessels. 121
1693 Feb. 23 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). U. S. suggestions of agreement between Germany and England regarding neutral shipping submitted to Allies. 122
1182 Feb. 24 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Netherland Government states that British Admiralty furnishes arms to merchant vessels. Requests confirmation of this. 122
168 Feb. 25 To the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Department conferring daily with representatives of neutrals on subject of concerted action. 122
1680 Feb. 24 [Rec’d Feb. 25] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Germany inclined to accept proposed basis for an agreement with Great Britain under certain conditions. 123
201 Feb. 25 [Rec’d Feb. 26] From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Transmits copies of Italian memoranda: one to Germany protesting methods of maritime warfare and one to Great Britain protesting the use of Italian flag by British ships. 123
170 Feb. 27 To the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Instructions to report upon truth of statement regarding Germany’s assurance of respect for Italian flag. 125
1714 Feb. 27 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Grey states that British policy regarding food for Germany is the consequence and not the cause of Germany’s practice of torpedoing merchant ships. 125
23 Feb. 27 From the Minister in Sweden (telegram). Sweden is discussing with Great Britain questions of convoy, neutral zone, or neutral port to aid neutral snipping. 125
1710 Feb. 27 [Rec’d Feb. 28] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Suggests that distribution of foodstuffs in Germany be superintended by committee not connected with the Government. If England objects, suggests that America place embargo on export of arms. 126
1695 Feb. 26 [Rec’d Feb. 28] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Regarding the agreement with England, Germany asks passage not only for food but for raw material. 126
203 Feb. 28 From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Von Jagow states Germany has given instructions to respect bonafide neutral flags. 126

the british and french declaration prohibiting all trade with germany (march 1, 1915)—orders and decrees for its enforcement protests of the united states proclamations concerning contraband of war replies to the proposals and protests of the united states

[Page XXVI][Page XXVII][Page XXVIII]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
Mar. 1 From the British Ambassador. Germany’s opponents driven to retaliatory measures regarding commodities, but they will be enforced without risk to neutral or non-combatant life. 127
Feb. 28 [Rec’d Mar. 1] From the British Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs to the British Ambassador at Washington (telegram). U. S. proposal to restrict use of submarines in exchange for permission for food to enter Germany is under consideration. 128
147 Mar. 1 From the Minister in Denmark (telegram). Diplomatic opinion regarding latest U. S. proposal. 128
1305 Mar. 2 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Department cannot accept suggestion regarding embargo on munitions from America if England refuses food to Germany. 129
1719 Mar. 1 [Rec’d Mar. 2] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Admiralty declares the extent of war area and requests that English, Japanese, and Servian Governments be notified. 129
1717 Mar. 1 [Rec’d Mar. 2] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Repeated to the Ambassador in Great Britain. Transmits German reply to U. S. suggestion that certain principles be agreed upon by Germany and England in maritime warfare. 129
210 Feb. 17 [Rec’d Mar. 3] From the Minister in the Netherlands. Suggests unity of action by United States and other neutrals to protect their citizens and commerce. 131
1753 Mar. 4 [Rec’d Mar. 5] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Emperor bitter against America. Military and naval heads have made terms of agreement with England impossible. 132
1233 Mar. 5 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Similar telegram to the Ambassador in France. Proposed method of blockade of German ports unknown to international law; gives neutrals no standard by which to measure rights or avoid danger. 132
1743 Mar. 6 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). American efforts for peace unappreciated in England. 134
Mar. 4 [Rec’d Mar. 6] From the Netherland Minister to the Counselor for the Department of State. Transmits text of Netherland note to Great Britain protesting against the abuse of neutral flags and of note to Germany protesting the war-zone declaration. 134
Mar. 10 From the British Ambassador. Transmits list of lubricating oils to be treated as conditional contraband. 136
1762 Mar. 10 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). No evidence that British have ordered transatlantic merchantmen to arm; and no arming prior to German submarine “blockade”. 137
1818 Mar. 11 [Rec’d Mar. 12] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). German Government attempting to stir up hatred for America. 138
1780 Mar. 13 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Proclamation of Mar. 11 makes additions to lists of contraband. 138
114 Feb. 18 [Rec’d Mar. 15] From the Minister in Sweden. Transmits copies of Swedish notes to Germany and Great Britain protesting against conditions of neutral shipping and misuse of neutral flags. 139
1795 Mar. 15 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Transmits Grey’s reply of Mar. 13 to U. S. note suggesting terms of agreement with Germany as to conduct of the war at sea. 140
1798 Mar. 15 [Rec’d Mar. 16] From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Transmits order in council of Mar. 11, and note from Grey regarding restriction of German trade. 143
616 Mar. 14 [Rec’d Mar. 16] From the Ambassador in France (telegram). Transmits French reply to U. S. note regarding restriction of German trade. 145
13 Mar. 20 From the Minister in Norway (telegram). Scandinavian countries have sent notes to Great Britain and France protesting against interruption of trade. 146
1816 Mar. 21 [Rec’d Mar. 22] From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). New methods of warfare have changed the definition of blockade. German submarine blockade is failure; provoked English blockade of Germany, which is effective. 146
70 Feb. 26 [Rec’d Mar. 22] From the Chargé in Russia. Transmits copies of Russian prize laws with recent modifications. 148
216 Mar. 6 [Rec’d Mar. 23] From the Minister in the Netherlands. Public opinion looks to the United States for leadership in maintaining neutral rights. 148
Undated [Rec’d Mar. 23] From the Netherland Foreign Office to the Netherland Legation at Washington (telegram). Netherlands takes exception to encroachment upon neutral rights by Allies. 149
334 Mar. 18 [Rec’d Mar. 30] From the Ambassador in France. Encloses decree of Mar. 13, 1915, regarding treatment of shipping bound to or from German ports 149
1343 Mar. 30 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Protests Allies’ methods of warfare and maintains rights of neutrals under rules of international law. 152
682 Mar. 30 To the Ambassador in France (telegram). Reply to Great Britain protesting against restriction of trade with Germany. 156
A2341 Apr. 4 From the German Ambassador. Transmits memorandum on German-American trade and the question of delivery of arms to Allies. 157
80 Mar. 23 [Rec’d Apr. 5] From the Minister in Norway. Transmits copy of identic note from Norway to France and Great Britain protesting their war measures. 158
1892 Apr. 7 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Press comment on U. S. note is friendly and shows appreciation of American position. 158
1399 Apr. 9 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Inquires whether British merchant vessels have armed to resist submarines. 159
238 Mar. 25 [Rec’d Apr. 12] From the Minister in the Netherlands. Proposes that the United States cooperate with the Netherlands in protecting their trade. 159
Apr. 10 [Rec’d Apr. 13] From the British Ambassador. Defines lubricants and notes transfer of articles to list of absolute contraband. 160
1379 Apr. 21 To the German Ambassador. Statement of position of the United States in maintaining its neutrality. 160
2097 Apr. 21 [Rec’d Apr. 23] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Modifications of German prize ordinance. 162
May 24 From the Italian Embassy. Submits for approval of United States a list of contraband in revision of treaty of 1871. 164
May 25 To the Italian Embassy. United States will raise no question as to list of contraband proposed by the Italian Government. 164
2188 May 29 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Additions and amendments to list of contraband. 165

blockades in the mediterranean area—the british argument for the blockade of germany—further extensions of contraband lists

[Page XXIX]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
307 May 29 From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Transmits Italian declaration of blockade of Austro-Hungarian and Albanian coasts. 166
310 May 31 From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Transmits Italian note defining the limits of the Albanian blockade. 166
2212 June 2 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Transmits British note proclaiming blockade of the Asia Minor coast including the Dardanelles. 167
344 July 7 From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Transmits Italian note extending blockade of the Adriatic. 167
July 16 [Rec’d July 19] From the Italian Ambassador. Transmits Italian contraband list and statement of principles to be applied by Italy in the war. 168
2522 July 24 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Transmits note from Grey in answer to American criticism of blockade. 168
292 Aug. 3 To the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Protests against Italian restrictions of neutral rights on coasts of Albania and the Adriatic. 172
374 Aug. 21 From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Gallipoli designated as convenient place for visit and search. Assurances of safety to American shipping. 172
379 Aug. 21 [Rec’d Aug. 22] From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Transmits Italian note giving further explanations of blockade and assurances of consideration for neutrals. 173
2685 Aug. 24 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Encloses proclamation placing cotton and its products on absolute contraband list. 174
972 Aug. 28 From the Ambassador in France (telegram). France has declared blockade of coast of Asia Minor and Syria. 174
3015 Oct. 15 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Transmits revised contraband list of Oct. 14, 1915. 175
3035 Oct. 18 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Transmits British note declaring blockade of Bulgarian coast on the Aegean. 177
235 Nov. 2 To the Ambassador in Italy. Protests against blockade of neutral shores on Adriatic. 177

the annulment by great britain and france of article 57 of the declaration of london

No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
3104 Oct. 28 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Transmits order in council of Oct. 20, 1915, annulling Art. 57 of the Declaration of London. 179
Nov. 4 From the Vice Consul at London (telegram). Subsequent to abrogation of Art. 57, nationality of a prize is to be determined by prize court. 179
1545 Oct. 29 [Rec’d Nov. 10] From the Ambassador in France. Encloses copy of French report showing difficulties in application of Art. 57 of Declaration of London, and decree of Oct. 23, 1915, modifying it. 179
Nov. 2 [Rec’d Nov. 13] From the Vice Consul at London. Parliamentary discussion of abrogation of Art. 57 of Declaration of London. 181
[Page XXX]

Correspondence and Informal Arrangements Regarding the Exportation to European Countries of Various Particular Commodities Affected by the Proclamations, Orders, and Decrees of Belligerent Governments on Contraband of War and Trade with Enemy Countries

shipments of copper

No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
1415 Jan. 5 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). British Government offered to buy whole output of copper from America during the war, but producers refused. 182
1512 Jan. 22 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Definition of the term “copper unwrought.” 183
Apr. 24 To Mr. Alvin Untermyer. Department not in position to object to classification of copper as contraband; quotes authorities regarding “continuous voyage.” 183
Nov. 12 From C.W. Leavitt & Co. Asks aid of Department in securing British Admiralty certificate to ship copper. 184
Dec. 7 To C. W. Leavitt & Co. Arrangement for special shipments of copper can be made with the British Admiralty. 184
44 Dec. 11 From the Minister in Norway (telegram). British demand that American copper for Norway must be shipped on British vessels via Great Britain. 185

shipments of cotton

[Page XXXI][Page XXXII]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
1234 Dec. 31, 1914 [Rec’d Jan. 2] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Inquires if cotton may be shipped to Germany. 185
947 Jan. 5 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). England and France give assurances that cotton will not be seized. 185
Jan. 27 From Inman, Akers & Inman (telegram). Inquiry regarding linters for shipment to Austria. 186
Jan. 29 To Inman, Akers & Inman (telegram). Linters for manufacture of ammunition would probably be held contraband. 186
132 Jan. 29 From the Minister in the Netherlands (telegram). American Ambassador, London, telegraphs that cottonseed oil may be shipped without hindrance. 186
Feb. 9 To the Consul General at London (telegram). Instructions to inquire if cotton yarn is non-contraband. 186
Feb. 10 From the Consul General at London (telegram). Cotton yarn is not contraband_ _ _ _ 187
Feb. 11 From Knauth, Nachod & Kuhne (telegram). Asks if cotton linters may be shipped as non-contraband. 187
Feb. 15 To Knauth, Nachod & Kuhne (telegram). Cotton linters for manufacture of ammunition may be considered contraband. 187
Feb. 23 To the Consul General at London (telegram). Asks if cotton linters are considered contraband. 187
Feb. 24 From the Consul General at London (telegram). Cotton linters are not contraband. 187
1219 Mar. 3 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Transmits request from Spring Rice to Grey that cotton owners be permitted to fill German orders contracted for prior to issuance of contraband declaration. 188
1222 Mar. 4 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions to ask British Government for exemption for vessels and cotton cargoes under charter contracted for prior to Mar. 1. 188
Mar. 8 Public announcement by the British Embassy. Arrangement made for shipment of cotton contracted for prior to Mar. 2. 189
369 Apr. 7 [Rec’d Apr. 21] From the Consul General at London. Possibility that cotton will be placed on contraband list; matter again being discussed. 189
407 Apr. 22 [Rec’d May 6] From the Consul General at London. Blockade measures seem to make special action on cotton unnecessary. 190
1603 May 22 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Cotton arrangements between British Government and Americans have no official connection with our Government. 190
2159 May 25 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). British understand that cotton arrangement does not involve our Government nor affect the American attitude towards the order in council. 191
June 25 From the Augusta Cotton Exchange and Board of Trade (telegram). Resolution protesting the confiscation by England of cotton shipped to neutral countries. 191
July 2 From the Galveston Commercial Association (telegram). Urges measures for prompt relief of cotton market. 192
2463 July 15 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Increasing agitation regarding cotton as contraband. 192
2510 July 22 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Cotton will be declared contraband and England will offer to buy large quantities. 193
2627 Aug. 13 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Allies discussing question of cotton with view to declaring it contraband. 193
A 5238 Aug. 22 [Rec’d Aug. 24] From the German Ambassador. Wood cellulose substituted for cotton in making munitions. Germany ready to assure that cotton will be used solely for civilians. 194
2118 Sept. 15 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions to take up with British the subject of cotton shipments to neutral European countries. 195
2830 Sept. 20 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Arrangements with the British Government to send American cotton to Swedish Cotton Spinners Association. 195

shipments of fruit

No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
Sept. 2 From the Consul General at London (telegram). American fruit must be consigned to Netherlands Oversea Trust; not so with southern fruits. 196
192 Sept. 4 To the Minister in the Netherlands (telegram). Instructions to protest if discrimination is shown against American fruit. 196
365 Sept. 3 [Rec’d Sept.6] From the Minister in the Netherlands (telegram). The Netherlands makes no discrimination in receiving fruit. 196
2102 Sept. 11 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Restriction against American fruit appears unjust. 196
2890 Sept. 30 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). British allow certain goods to enter Holland in exchange for special concessions; would probably cooperate with United States in same way. 197
Dec. 2 From Steinhardt & Kelly (telegram). Requests Department to arrange for shipments of apples to Holland. Tobacco on free list. 197
Dec. 9 To Steinhardt & Kelly. Fruit may be consigned to Oversea Trust. Agreement between Great Britain and Holland explained. 197
[Page XXXIII]

shipments of naval stores

No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
871 Jan. 2 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Asks definition of “resinous substances” and on what grounds they are ranked as contraband. 198
Jan. 5 To the British Ambassador. Emphasizes importance of the rosin trade in the south. 198
Jan. 6 [Rec’d Jan. 8] From the British Ambassador. Rosin shipped prior to declaration may be seized but must be paid for. 199
Jan. 9 [Rec’d Jan. 11] From the British Ambassador. Explains attitude of the British Government on shipments of rosin. 199
516 Jan. 21 To the Ambassador in Great Britain. Instructions to request the British Government to remove rosin from contraband list. 200
835 Feb. 2 [Rec’d Feb. 15] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Transmits British note setting forth reason for declaring resinous products contraband. 201

shipments of tobacco

No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
1122 June 15 To the Ambassador in Great Britain. Quotes messages from the American Minister at The Hague regarding discrimination in tobacco trade; forwards U. S. views for presentation to British Government. 202
1872 July 26 [Rec’d Aug. 9] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Transmits British note in reply to representations regarding discrimination in tobacco trade. 203
1758 Oct. 12 To the Ambassador in Great Britain. Sets forth complaints of tobacco exporters. The United States expects American tobacco to be accorded same privileges as other tobacco. 204
2452 Nov. 13 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions to urge Foreign Office to allow shipments of tobacco to neutrals Without proof that it will not reach Germany. 205
3281 Nov. 25 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). British agree not to interfere with tobacco shipped to neutral countries. 206
2504 Nov. 27 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Inquiries whether tobacco in all forms may be shipped to neutrals without question of ultimate destination. 206
3317 Nov. 30 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Confirms report that tobacco and its extracts may be shipped without interference. 206
[Page XXXIV]

Correspondence and Informal Arrangements Regarding the Importation of Goods from Germany and Occupied Territory Under the British and French Declaration of March 1, 1915, and the Orders and Decrees for its Enforcement

importation of goods bought or ordered before march 1, 1915

[Page XXXV][Page XXXVI][Page XXXVII][Page XXXVIII][Page XXXIX]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
Mar. 10 From the Secretary of the National Association of Importers. Transmits resolution petitioning the Department to obtain modification of British embargo on dyestuffs, etc. 207
Mar. 15 From E. R. Squibb & Sons. Appeal for protection against unlawful interference by Great Britain with trade in botanical medicinal drugs from Germany. 207
1846 Mar. 15 [Rec’d Mar.16] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). American importers must accept and pay for goods for which they have signed contracts with German manufacturers. 208
Mar. 20 From the Commercial Adviser of the British Embassy to the Foreign Trade Adviser of the Department of State. Gives assurance that contracts made before Mar. 1 will be dealt with leniently. 208
Mar. 27 From the Cutlery Importers Association. Resolutions asking Government to take steps to secure importation of non-contraband goods necessary to American industry. 209
Apr. 3 From the Foreign Trade Adviser of the Department of State to the Commercial Adviser of the British Embassy. Inquires British interpretation of term “American ownership.” Case of Mr. Wolf. 209
Apr. 9 Printed circular of Foreign Trade Advisers of the Department of State. Movement of American-owned goods in Germany. Importers advised to submit evidence of ownership and payment to the British Embassy. 211
148 Apr. 29 To the Minister in the Netherlands (telegram). Instructions to ascertain procedure of Oversea Trust in importation from Germany and Austria to America. 212
257 Apr. 30 [Rec’d May 1] From the Minister in the Netherlands (telegram). Method of procedure in exportation from Germany to the United States. 212
2141 Apr. 30 [Rec’d May 2] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Requirements for proof of ownership of goods shipped from Germany to the United States. 213
May 6 From the Foreign Trade Adviser of the Department of State to the Commercial Adviser of the British Embassy. Asks for written statement of understanding of negotiations facilitating shipments of goods. 213
May 10 From the Commercial Adviser of the British Embassy to the Foreign Trade Adviser of the Department of State. Negotiations facilitating shipment of goods to and from countries at war with Great Britain are unofficial and do not commit either Government. 214
1687 May 15 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). The same, mutatis mutandis, to the Ambassador in Austria-Hungary. Consuls authorized to issue certificates of transfer of title to American ownership. 214
266 May 17 From the Minister in the Netherlands (telegram). Oversea Trust arrangement limited to goods in Holland before May 15 and shipped from Holland before June 1. Applies also to Belgian goods. 215
May 19 From the Commercial Adviser of the British Embassy to the Foreign Trade Adviser of the Department of State. Goods of enemy origin, paid for before Mar. 1, must be shipped before June 15—a special concession to the United States. 215
May 21 From the Foreign Trade Adviser of the Department of State. Résumé of unofficial conversations with British representatives regarding cotton shipments to Germany. 216
May 22 Public statement issued by the Department of State. The U. S. Foreign Trade Advisers have declined to continue conferring with the Commercial Advisers of the British Embassy until difficulties have been removed. 221
May 22 From the Counselor of the British Embassy to the Counselor for the Department of State. Requests withdrawal of communication in which “United States Government” is misapplied to negotiations with private shipping interests. 221
May 22 From the Counselor for the Department of State to the Counselor of the British Embassy. Returns requested note. Denies official nature of negotiations regarding American trade. 221
May 25 [Rec’d May 26] From the Counselor of the British Embassy to the Counselor for the Department of State. Transmits public statement by the British Embassy that the unofficial arrangements made with American shippers do not involve the U. S. Government. 222
May 26 From the Commercial Adviser of the British Embassy to Foreign Trade Adviser of the Department of State. June 15 is latest date under which goods of enemy origin may be shipped from neutral ports. 223
May 29 From the Foreign Trade Adviser of the Department of State to the Commercial Adviser of the British Embassy. Unofficially requests that time limit for shipping goods from neutral ports to this country be removed. 223
June 5 From the Commercial Adviser of the British Embassy to the Foreign Trade Adviser of the Department of State. Removal of American-owned goods from Germany involves principles which must be settled by respective Governments. 225
1665 June 7 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions to represent to Great Britain unofficially the difficulties in moving American-owned goods from Germany within time limit. 225
1750 June 22 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Proposes plan for shipment of goods of German origin contracted for prior to Mar. 1. 226
2449 July 13 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Foreign Office sees no advantage in chartering a vessel to move goods of German origin. 227
1904 July 26 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions to place shipping difficulties before the Foreign Office and urge consideration of Department’s plan. 227
Aug. 19 From the Foreign Trade Adviser of the Department of State to the Commercial Adviser of the British Embassy. Quotes Grey’s note regarding the Neches, and states why consideration should be shown in such cases. 228
Aug. 20 From the Commercial Adviser of the British Embassy to the Foreign Trade Adviser of the Department of State. Is of opinion that the Neches note refers to goods taken before a prize court. 229
Aug. 20 From the Consul General at London (telegram). Representatives of German importers have obtained permits covering goods ordered prior to Mar. 1 under circumstances rendering purchaser liable. 230
2010 Aug. 23 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Certain goods have been permitted to go forward. Instructions to ascertain under what conditions and why same treatment cannot apply to all. 230
2730 Sept. 1 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Subject of permits for shipping goods of German origin from neutral ports under discussion in England and France. 230
2065 Sept. 3 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Importers indignant because private attorneys are getting permits to move goods from neutral ports. Department pressed for information. 231
2759 Sept. 6 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). British agreeable to presentation of applications by foreign trade advisers: no discrimination. 232
2775 Sept. 9 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Transmits British note giving assurances that cases concerning goods of enemy origin will be dealt with expeditiously and without discrimination. 232
2103 Sept. 11 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Requests details of procedure in making applications of American owners for goods of German, Austrian, or Turkish origin. 232
Sept. 13 From the Counsel for the American Importers’ Association. Protests unfair treatment of American shippers by Great Britain and advocates embargo on ammunition in retaliation. 233
2800 Sept. 14 [Rec’d Sept. 15] From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Foreign Office delays information as to shipping from neutral ports, pending decision of France. 235
2123 Sept. 15 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Repeats request for full information as to conditions under which permits are granted importers for movement of goods. 236
2122 Sept. 15 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Attorneys in London claim ability to obtain permits for release of goods, charging certain per cent of value of shipment. Instructions to include this statement in protest. 236
2819 Sept. 17 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Applications for shipments must be accompanied by proof. Foreign Office willing to make arrangement for cases to be presented by American trade advisers. 237
2852 Sept. 23 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Grey agrees to request that cases of importers be presented by trade advisers. 238
2171 Sept. 25 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). British Embassy advises foreign trade advisers that it is prepared to receive applications of importers. 238
2861 Sept. 25 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Transmits memorandum from Foreign Office regarding delivery of imports, running contracts, etc. 238
2233 Oct. 6 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Asks consideration for importers who purchased before Mar. 15 without notice of time limit. 239
Oct. 23 From the Foreign Trade Adviser of the Department of State to the Commercial Adviser of the British Embassy. Requests an extension of time in which to prepare cases of American importers who have contracted to pay for goods of German, Austrian, or Turkish origin before Mar. 15. 239
3099 Oct. 27 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). British Government is unable to extend favorable treatment to applicants in respect of goods contracted for after Mar. 1. 240
2370 Oct. 28 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Impracticable for all applicants to present their cases by Nov. 1. Requests extension of time to Dec. 1. 240
Oct. 29 From the Commercial Adviser of the British Embassy to the Foreign Trade Adviser of the Department of State. Preliminary applications for all cases of importers should be made by Nov. 1, additional details to be furnished later. 241
3123 Oct. 30 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Time limit for filing claims will not be extended beyond Nov. 1. Foreign Office will consider claims if preliminary data are submitted before that time. 241
2388 Nov. 1 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions to try to obtain reconsideration in cases of running contracts. Explanation of difficulty. 241
3150 Nov. 3 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Claims arising out of running contracts will be considered impartially if presented before Nov. 1. 242
2406 Nov. 4 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions to present to Foreign Office the protests of importers who ordered goods between Mar. 1 and Mar. 15 and have not obtained them. 242
2418 Nov. 6 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Requests extension of time for submitting cases of running contracts. 243
3252 Nov. 20 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). British Government unable to extend time for submitting claims for running contracts. 243
3247 Nov. 20 [Rec’d Nov. 21] From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Transmits note from Grey regarding goods ordered and paid for in Germany and Austria between Mar. 1 and Mar. 15. 243

importation of books

[Page XL]
No. Date From and To Whom Subject Page
1315 Mar. 25 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions to ask if books published in Germany will be molested when exported to the United States. 244
1900 Apr. 8 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Foreign Office cannot exempt books of German origin from operations of order in council of Mar. 11. 244
698 Apr. 17 From the Ambassador in France (telegram). German publications considered effective means of propaganda; may not be exported. 244
Oct. 8 From the Commercial Adviser of the British Embassy to the Foreign Trade Adviser of the Department of State. British Government will permit shipment of books of educational character for public institutions if vouched for by U. S. Government. 245
Oct. 23 From the Foreign Trade Adviser of the Department of State to the Commercial Adviser of the British Embassy. Librarian of Congress to vouch for German publications; desires to know the character of voucher required. 245
Oct. 24 From the Commercial Adviser of the British Embassy to the Foreign Trade Adviser of the Department of State. Describes the character of voucher required for permits to import German books. 246
Nov. 12 Statement for the press issued by the Department of State. Notification of requirements for permits to import books from Germany. 246

importation of sugar-beet seed

[Page XLI]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
1482 May 25 [Rec’d June 4] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Transmits correspondence regarding attitude of British Government toward the shipment of German beet seed to the United States. 247
July 30 From the Foreign Trade Adviser of the Department of State to the Commercial Adviser of the British Embassy. Requests permit for W. B. Rosevear, jr., to import beet seed from Germany. 248
2017 July 30 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Department of Agriculture willing to act as consignee for beet seed. Requests cooperation of Dippe Bros. in obtaining German permit to export. 249
Aug. 4 From the Commercial Adviser of the British Embassy to the Foreign Trade Adviser of the Department of State. British Government permits shipment of beet seed from Germany to the United States under conditions agreed upon. 250
2887 Sept. 10 [Rec’d Sept.15] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Transmits report from the Consul at Magdeburg: Germany will permit exportation of sugar-beet seed to the United States in exchange for foodstuffs and cotton. 250
2257 Oct. 2 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Instructions to obtain permission for shipment of sugar-beet seed from specified firms. Exchange of commodities impracticable. 250
3075 Nov. 3 From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Transmits German reply to U. S. note regarding shipments of sugar-beet seed. 251
2381 Nov. 6 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Specifies number of permits granted by British Embassy for uninterrupted shipment of sugar-beet seed. Instructions to arrange for shipments. 251
3170 Dec. 1 [Rec’d Dec. 2] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Permit granted for shipment of sugar-beet seed from certain firms. Further exportation refused without equivalent. 252

importation of dyes

No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
1930 Apr. 14 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Transmits British agreement not to interfere with shipments of dyestuffs released by Germany; conditions stipulated. 252
1518 Apr. 14 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Arrangements for shipments of dyestuffs in exchange for cotton. 253
1629 May 5 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). British permit passage of two shiploads dyestuffs from a neutral port. Plans for other shipments. 253
2199 May 10 [Rec’d May 11] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). German inquiry regarding cargo of the Neches. 254
1654 May 12 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Cotton shipments to Germany ten times the value of released dyestuffs. Urges release of dyestuffs for shipment on Neches. 254
2253 May 19 [Rec’d May 20] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Transmits German reply to U. S. protest against smallness of amount of dyestuffs released and request for shipment on the Neches. 254
2434 June 15 [Rec’d June 16] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Transmits German note requiring guaranteed safe passage of cotton in exchange for dyestuffs. 255
1862 June 22 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Proposed exchange of cotton for dyestuffs is but isolated feature of question of protecting neutral trade. 255
[Page XLII]

importation of drugs

No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
2073 Sept. 4 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions to aid in shipment of certain drugs obtained only in Germany. 255
2809 Sept. 16 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Transmits British refusal to permit shipments of drugs from Germany. Equivalents obtainable from France. 256
2236 Oct. 7 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions to urge prompt release of drugs bought in Germany before Jan. 1, and paid for. 256
2975 Oct. 9 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Foreign Office authorized to issue permit for shipment of certain amount of drugs from Germany. No further shipments guaranteed. 256
3066 Oct. 21 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). No decision reached by the French regarding drugs. British unwilling to permit shipment of any but tissue dyes. 257
1638 Oct. 14 [Rec’d Nov. 1] From the Ambassador in Germany. German Government grants permission for desired exportation of drugs with certain guarantees. 257
2402 Nov. 3 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). U. S. patents grant sole right to make certain drugs. Need is urgent. Requests reconsideration by Foreign Office. 258
1487 Nov. 9 To the Ambassador in Germany. German Government will grant desired exportation of drugs to the United States under guarantee that they will not be reexported. 259
1094 Nov. 10 From the Ambassador in France (telegram). Drugs can be supplied by France and Great Britain. Tissue dyes from Germany are authorized. 260
3344 Dec. 4 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). The French and British will allow six months’ supply of needed drugs imported from Germany. 260
3206 Dec. 9 [Rec’d Dec. 10] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Requests information concerning telegram from Metz to ship drugs to Rotterdam. 261
2509 Dec. 16 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Metz has permits from British Government for shipments of certain drugs from Germany. Requests German permission to export. 261
[Page XLIII]

importation of porcelain guides for textile machinery

No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
1677 June 7 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions to ascertain if permit can be obtained for shipment of porcelain guides from Rotterdam. 261
2437 July 10 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Porcelain guides can be obtained in Great Britain. 262
1302 July 26 To the Ambassador in Great Britain. Impossible to obtain porcelain guides of requisite character anywhere outside of Germany. Urges authorization for release. 262
2652 Aug. 19 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Foreign Office wishes details as to character of porcelain guides. 263
1526 Aug. 31 To the Ambassador in Great Britain. Additional evidence regarding porcelain guides sent for British authorities. 263
2304 Oct. 19 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions to present facts to Foreign Office concerning shipment of porcelain guides and urge prompt action. 264
2443 Oct. 29 [Rec’d Nov.12] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Transmits British note permitting shipment to United States of German porcelain guides. 264

importation of goods of belgian origin

No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
June 11 To the Consul General at London (telegram). Instructions to report status of goods made in parts of Belgium occupied by German forces. 265
June 12 From the Consul General at London (telegram). Goods from Belgium presumably of German origin. Each case considered on its own merits. 265
June 14 From the Consul General at London (telegram). Cabinet is to be consulted regarding exports from Belgium. 266
2769 Sept. 8 [Rec’d Sept.9] From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Transmits British printed form for use in exporting goods of Belgian origin from Holland. 266
2817 Sept. 17 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Transmits British note of Sept. 16 requiring deposit of documents covering sale and shipment of Belgian goods. 266
2190 Sept. 30 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Inquires the nature of documents required for deposit in shipment of Belgian goods. 267
2932 Oct. 5 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Documents referred to covering sale and shipment of Belgian goods, are such documents as are deposited in banks in business transactions. 267
3337 Dec. 3 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Foreign Office complains that conditions imposed upon exports from Belgium have not been complied with. Added instructions forwarded. 267
[Page XLIV]

Arrangements for the Regulation of Import and Transit Trade Made by European Neutral Countries

the netherlands oversea trust company

[Page XLV]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
Dec. 21, 1914 [Rec’d Jan. 4] From the Consul General at Rotterdam. Describes organization and object of Netherlands Oversea Trust. 268
Undated [Rec’d Jan. 4] From the Netherland Government to the Netherland Minister at Washington (telegram). British, French, and Russians agree to pass contraband merchandise consigned to Oversea Trust. 269.
191 Jan. 9 [Rec’d Jan. 25] From the Minister in the Netherlands. Working plan of the Oversea Trust explained for the benefit of shippers. 269.
201 Feb. 1 [Rec’d Feb. 17] From the Minister in the Netherlands. Transmits articles of the Netherlands Oversea Trust Co. 270
117 Mar. 4 To the Minister in the Nethererlands (telegram). Instructions to ascertain if Oversea Trust will act as consignee for American cotton. 273
186 Mar. 5 From the Minister in the Netherlands (telegram). Oversea Trust will probably accept cotton consignments. 273
130 Mar. 16 To the Minister in the Netherlands (telegram). Suggests that Oversea Trust accept non-contraband shipments and that Holland-America Line accept consignments to the Trust. 273
230 Mar. 31 [Rec’d Apr. 1] From the Minister in the Netherlands (telegram). Oversea Trust will only accept non-contraband in special cases. 273
142 Apr. 14 To the Minister in the Netherlands (telegram). Inquires if Oversea Trust will accept consignments of non-contraband specified by Great Britain. 274
243 Apr. 16 From the Minister in the Netherlands (telegram). Oversea Trust will receive non-contraband goods shipped before Apr. 30, including tobacco, cocoa, and coffee. 274
269 May 22 From the Minister in the Netherlands (telegram). Oversea Trust forbids further imports of cotton oil. 274
155 May 22 To the Minister in the Netherlands (telegram). Inquires whether American tobacco is discriminated against. 275
270 May 25 From the Minister in the Netherlands (telegram). Tobacco from Netherland colonies unrestricted, by agreement with England. 275
127 June 19 To the Minister in the Netherlands. Department to be kept informed as to operations of Oversea Trust. 275
129 June 29 To the Minister in the Netherlands. Instructions to investigate statement that Oversea Trust receives no goods except from Dutch concerns. 275
167 June 30 To the Minister in the Netherlands (telegram). Steamship lines refuse Morris & Company’s shipments. Instructions to endeavor to secure permit from Oversea Trust. 276
308 July 2 From the Minister in the Netherlands (telegram). Overabundant supply of fats and oils. Oversea Trust refuses more. 276
299 July 8 [Rec’d July 21] From the Minister in the Netherlands. Explains position and activities of the Netherlands Oversea Trust. 277
317 July 24 [Rec’d Aug.6] From the Minister in the Netherlands. Explanation has been given regarding charge that Oversea Trust discriminates against America. 278
199 Sept. 18 To the Minister in the Netherlands (telegram). Instructions to ask Oversea Trust to accept consignment of oleo oil, etc., for D. B. Martin Co. 279
379 Undated [Rec’d Sept.20] From the Minister in the Netherlands (telegram). Oversea Trust refuses Martin consignment. 279
375 Nov. 4 [Rec’d Nov. 24] From the Minister in the Netherlands. Encloses announcement by Oversea Trust of right to refuse clients who violate their obligations. 279
233 Dec. 16 To the Minister in the Netherlands (telegram). Revocation of licenses after shipment of goods is detrimental to interests of Dutch-American trade. 280
455 Dec. 18 [Rec’d Dec. 19] From the Minister in the Netherlands (telegram). Oversea Trust is instructed to suspend delivery of suspicious goods until investigated by British. 280

the swedish cotton spinners association and the transito company

[Page XLVI]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
June 30 From the Southern Products Co. (telegram). Inquires as to report that cotton may be shipped to Sweden. 281
July 2 From the Foreign Trade Adviser of the Department of State to the Southern Products Co. (telegram). British Government has made agreement for importation of cotton into Sweden. 281
27 July 16 To the Minister in Sweden (telegram). Inquires attitude of Sweden towards cotton shipped from America to Russia via Sweden. 282
47 July 17 [Rec’d July 18] From the Chargé in Sweden (telegram). Swedish agreement with Great Britain to allow merchandise to pass into Russia in exchange for equal quantities for Sweden. 282
246 July 3 [Rec’d July 26] From the Chargé in Sweden. British Government has sent commission to Sweden to settle trade difficulties. 282
302 July 27 [Rec’d Aug. 14] From the Chargé in Sweden. Reports of reciprocal trade arrangements between Great Britain and Sweden. 283
347 Aug. 13 [Rec’d Aug. 31] From the Chargé in Sweden. The British and Swedish trade commissioners have failed to reach an agreement. 283
68 Oct. 30 From the Minister in Sweden (telegram). Negotiations between Swedish and English commissioners have been broken off. 284
453 Oct. 30 [Rec’d Nov. 23] From the Minister in Sweden. British suspect Sweden of allowing goods to go to Germany. Negotiations are discontinued. 284
491 Nov. 26 [Rec’d Dec. 17] From the Minister in Sweden. Transmits statement from Foreign Office regarding traffic passing through Sweden. 285
489 Nov. 24 [Rec’d Dec. 21] From the Minister in Sweden. Transmits communication from Bildt, explaining the purpose of the Transito Co. 286
497 Dec. 1 [Rec’d Dec. 28] From the Minister in Sweden. Transmits publication by the British Legation explaining the organization and object of the Aktiebolaget Transito. 287

the danish chamber of manufacturers and merchants guild

No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
2653 Dec. 7 [Rec’d Dec. 18] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Arrangements concluded between British Foreign Office and Merchants’ Guild of Copenhagen and Danish Chamber of Manufacturers regarding imports. 288
134 Dec. 17 [Rec’d Jan. 5, 1916] From the Consul General at Copenhagen. Society of Wholesale Dealers and Association of Industry of Denmark have agreed with England for importation of goods. 289

the swiss society of surveillance

[Page XLVII]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
159 July 16 [Rec’d Aug. 3] From the Minister in Switzerland. Switzerland’s economic difficulties. 290
188 Sept. 15 [Rec’d Sept. 16] From the Minister in Switzerland (telegram). Agreement reached with Allies regulating imports into Switzerland. 292
199 Oct. 1 From the Minister in Switzerland (telegram). Details of agreement between Switzerland and the Allies not perfected. 292
Nov. 23 From the Vice Consul at London (telegram). Swiss import trust in operation_ _ _ _ 292
423 Dec. 4 [Rec’d Dec. 27] From the Ambassador in Italy. Discussion of conditions under which Switzerland may receive imports through Italy. 293
Jan. 4, 1916 Statement issued by the Swiss Legation. Instructions for shipments to Switzerland. 293
1824 Dec. 31 [Rec’d Jan. 12, 1916] From the Ambassador in France. American merchandise for Switzerland in transit through France. 294

Interference by Belligerent Governments with Neutral Ships, Cargoes, and Passengers

cases and correspondence arising under orders, decrees, and proclamations of 1914—the british preliminary note of january 7, 1915, on detention of neutral ships and cargoes

[Page XLVIII][Page XLIX]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
780 Dec. 18, 1914 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions to investigate reports regarding advantages reaped by British in trade with neutrals. 295
797 Dec. 21, 1914 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions to consuls in British Isles to obtain statistics regarding copper exports. 295
Dec. 28, 1914 From the Danish Minister. Asks if the United States recognizes right of England to seize American vessels carrying conditional contraband to Denmark. 296
40AIII Dec. 28, 1914 From the Danish Minister. Asks that the United States take steps to defend her trade with smaller neutral countries. 296
877 Jan. 4 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Transmits Treasury notice warning against inaccuracy in ships’ manifests. 297
1414 Jan. 5 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Report of Consul General Skinner on shipments of copper and rubber from England. 298
Jan. 7 To the Danish Legation. Cannot state in advance whether the United States would recognize right of England to seize vessels carrying contraband to ports of Denmark. 298
1434 Jan. 7 [Rec’d Jan. 8] From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Transmits note from Grey in justification of British policy regarding neutral trade. 299
1440 Jan. 8 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Grey promises better shipping arrangements for neutrals. 302
Jan. 8 From the Swiss Minister. Arrangement made for transit of Swiss goods through Italy. Swiss embargo on exports. 303
1450 Jan. 11 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). British merchants failed to get agency for American copper. No copper being shipped from England. 304
215 Jan. 1 [Rec’d Jan. 12] From the Consul General at London. Discusses British requirements and encloses British reply to protest regarding freight on diverted cargoes. 304
939 Jan. 12 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Acknowledges British note regarding freight on diverted cargoes. 305
Jan. 13 [Rec’d June 12] From the British Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs to the British Embassy at Washington (telegram). To relieve shortage of tonnage British are willing to release ships on bail. 306
12 Jan. 13 From the Minister in Sweden (telegram). Decree prohibits transit of war material over Sweden. 306
475 Jan. 13 To the British Ambassador. Protests against inclusion of turpentine and rosin within contraband list and their seizure. 306
Jan. 13 From Crossman & Sielcken. Encloses message from Paulsen & Co. explaining increase of imports of American goods to Denmark. 307
476 Jan. 14 To the British Ambassador. Steamship companies refuse to accept freight for Switzerland. 308
964 Jan. 15 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions to request release of copper for Switzerland detained at Gibraltar. 308
728 Jan. 7 [Rec’d Jan. 18] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Transmits British memorandum regarding neutral trade. 309
14 Jan. 19 From the Minister in Sweden (telegram). Swedish official statistics regarding imports. 311
Jan. 20 To Crossman & Sielcken. Expresses appreciation of letter regarding increase of Danish imports. 311
Jan. 20 From the Secretary of the German-American Chamber of Commerce. Allies are pressing Sweden to cancel the prohibition against transit of war material through Sweden. 311
27 Jan. 18 [Rec’d Jan. 21] From the British Ambassador. Transmits published statement that no restrictions are placed upon shipments to Switzerland. 312
1015 Jan. 22 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions to assist in release of copper for Switzerland. 312

the case of the wilhelmina ”—the control of foodstuffs by the german government

[Page L]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
Jan. 22 From Hays, Kaufmann & Lindheim. Statement regarding the shipment of foodstuffs on the Wilhelmina , consigned to an American in Germany. 313
16 Jan. 22 [Rec’d Jan. 23] From the Minister in Sweden (telegram). Foreign Office states that only fair comparison of imports is weight or volume, not value. 314
249 Jan. 15 [Rec’d Jan. 26] From the Consul General at London. Correspondence with British officials regarding payment of freight on seized cargoes. 314
1537 Jan. 27 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). German military powers have taken over food supplies. Wilhelmina cargo will be bought by the British Government. 317
1536 Jan. 27 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Swiss Minister has secured the trade conditions desired. 317
Jan. 28 [Rec’d Jan. 29] From the German Ambassador. The German Government will guarantee not to interfere with importation and sale of foodstuffs from the United States to the civil population. 317
Feb. 1 From the Assistant Secretary of the Treasury to the Solicitor for the Department of State. Transmits letter from Geo. E. Warren regarding cargo of foodstuffs for Germany. 318
Feb. 3 To the Secretary of the Treasury. British Government regards foodstuffs for Germany as enemy goods because of German decree permitting military to take over all foodstuffs for distribution. 318
Feb. 4 To Mr. J. H. Morrison. Department does not see in the Dacia case any complications involving the United States. 319
1592 Feb. 4 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Transmits British decision that cargo of the Wilhelmina is conditional contraband. 319
66 Jan. 20 [Rec’d Feb. 4] From the Minister in Norway. Transmits report of the Norwegian National Victualing Commission, showing imports in 1914 as compared with 1913. 320
140 Feb. 6 To the Consul General at London. Approves action regarding payment of freight, etc., in release of American cargoes. 321
Feb. 6 [Rec’d Feb. 8] From the French Ambassador. German decree makes all foodstuffs for Germany liable to seizure. 322
1607 Feb. 8 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Effect of Department’s order prohibiting publication of ship manifests till after thirty days. 322
1462 Mar. 1 To the French Ambassador. Transmits German communication giving assurance that cereals imported to Germany will be used exclusively by civil population. 323

the british note of february 10, 1915 in justification of the detention of neutral ship and cargoes—the seizure of the wilhelmina and the “dacia”

[Page LI]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
1627 Undated [Rec’d Feb. 12] From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Transmits British note of Feb. 10 justifying detention of neutral ships and cargoes. 324
1138 Feb. 16 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Order prohibiting publication of ship manifests until after thirty days has been rescinded. 334
1662 Feb. 17 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Public is grateful for rescission of order forbidding publication of ship manifests for thirty days. 334
1157 Feb. 19 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Proposes satisfactory arrangement for release of copper held at Gibraltar. 334
1672 Feb. 19 [Rec’d Feb. 20] From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Transmits memorandum regarding repeal of German decree as affecting seizure of the Wilhelmina and in justification of British policy of retaliation. 335
1165 Feb. 20 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions to continue efforts to secure release of copper. 337
872 Feb. 9 [Rec’d Feb. 24] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Copper from the Regina d’Italia, the Palermo and the Ascot will be purchased by the British. 337
877 Feb. 11 [Rec’d Feb. 24] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Transmits memorandum from Grey enclosing circular of a German firm in New York regarding restrictions on exports. 338
1659 Feb. 22 [Rec’d Feb. 24] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Reports the sinking of the Evelyn_ _ _ _ _ _ 339
1687 Feb. 25 [Rec’d Feb. 26] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram.) Reports the sinking of the Carib_ _ _ _ 339
574 Feb. 28 From the Ambassador in France (telegram). Ministry of Marine announces that the Dacia was captured in English Channel by French cruiser. 340
1728 Mar. 2 [Rec’d Mar. 3] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Captains of the Evelyn and the Carib report both ships sunk by mines. 340
594 Mar. 6 From the Ambassador in France (telegram). The Dacia considered an enemy vessel, France not recognizing change of flag after hostilities commence. 340

the cases of the “william p. frye,” “vitalia,” and “wico”—the packers’ cases—german prize-court rules and decisions

[Page LII]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
Mar. 10 From Arthur Sewall & Co. (telegram). Reports sinking of the William P. Frye . Requests the Department to investigate and protect the company. 341
Mar. 12 [Rec’d Mar. 13] From the British Embassy. Calls attention to a German warship carrying neutral prisoners, some of them U. S. citizens, thus exposing them to attack. 341
Mar. 13 From the Consul General at London (telegram). Protests treatment of the Vitalia, the A. A. Raven, and the Ruby; and suggests that British Government be requested to state rules regarding shipments to Holland. 342
939 Feb. 22 [Rec’d Mar. 15] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Transmits Grey’s denial of charge that copper seized by British had been sold to neutral countries at a profit. 342
Mar. 15 From the Assistant Secretary of the Treasury to the Counselor for the Department of State. Forwards statement of the commander of the Prinz Eitel Friedrich regarding the destruction of the William P. Frye . 343
1789 Mar. 15 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Meat and lard shipped by Armour and by Swift to Göteborg will be placed in prize court. 344
1281 Mar. 16 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Encloses telegram from Governor General of the Philippines stating that merchants in Manila complain that goods are held by British at Singapore. Instructions to ask explanation of British Government. 344
306 Feb. 25 [Rec’d Mar. 18] From the Consul General at London. Transmits propositions relative to British seizure of shipments of American meat products. 345
204 Feb. 17 [Rec’d Mar. 18] From the Consul General at Hamburg. Forwards German law regarding prize-court procedure and calls attention to time-limit and other conditions in entering claims. 346
209 Feb. 18 [Rec’d Mar. 18] From the Consul General at Hamburg. Transmits decision of the Hamburg prize court in the case of the Glitra. 350
1020 Mar. 9 [Rec’d Mar. 19] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Transmits statement from Grey that conditional contraband sent to the Netherlands will not be detained if consigned to the Oversea Trust. 353
1296 Mar. 20 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions to protest against detention in British port of American S. S. Wico with cargo of oil for Stockholm. 354
1885 Mar. 21 [Rec’d Mar. 22] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). German embargoes and discriminations against American trade a sufficient reason for our not warring against English blockade of Germany. 354
Mar. 23 To the Consul General at London (telegram). Instructions to ascertain owner of the cargo of the William P. Frye . 355
Mar. 24 From the Consul Genera] at London (telegram). Reports ownership of cargo of William P. Frye . 355
Mar. 26 To the British Embassy. Department declines to comment on the practice of sinking neutral ships and carrying their crews on ships of war. 355
Mar. 27 From the Consul General at London (telegram). Prize claims committee formed to consider claims of British, Allied or neutral third parties. 356
1342 Mar. 30 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Inquiry and instructions regarding meat packers’ consignments. 356
1446 Mar. 31 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Transmits claim against German Government for destruction of the William P. Frye . 357
[Page LIII]

cases arising under the german war-zone proclamation of february 4, 1915: torpedoing of the “falaba” and “gulflight,” attack on the “cushing”—cases arising under the british order in council of march 11, 1915: detention of the “segurança,” “ogeechee,” and “joseph w. fordney”—note of april 28, 1915, to germany asking diplomatic settlement of the “frye” case—british prize-court rules

[Page LIV][Page LV][Page LVI]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
1864 Mar. 31 [Rec’d Apr. 1] From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Thrasher, an American citizen, thought to have been drowned when British ship Falaba was sunk by German submarine. 358
Apr. 3 From the Consul General at Rotterdam (telegram). Sinking of Greenbrier due to mine explosion. 358
Apr. 5 To the Consul General at London (telegram). Instructions to obtain details of sinking of Falaba and death of Thrasher. 358
1471 Apr. 6 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Instructions to report details of sinking of the Falaba. 358
1889 Apr. 6 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Cargo of the Segurança should be reconsigned to the Netherlands Oversea Trust. 359
Apr. 7 From the Consul General at London (telegram). Forwards testimony of passengers regarding sinking of the Falaba. No doubt of Thrasher’s death. 359
1984 Apr. 6 [Rec’d Apr. 7] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Transmits reply of Apr. 4 to claim for damages for the sinking of the William P. Frye . 360
Apr. 8 To the Consul General at London (telegram). Instructions to ascertain whether the Falaba carried guns and ammunition. 361
1907 Apr. 8 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). The Wico allowed to proceed to destination. Further oil trade with Stockholm will be considered by British Government. 361
Apr. 8 [Rec’d Apr. 9] From the Consul General at London (telegram). Appealed in vain to prize court to free ships and cargo from expenses incidental to detention. 361
1398 Apr. 9 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Does not admit right of British to require cargo of Segurança to be reconsigned to Oversea Trust, but owners willing. 362
Apr. 9 From the Consul General at London (telegram). Report on sinking of the Falaba. 362
1903 Apr. 8 [Rec’d Apr. 9] From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Transmits official offers of indemnification in Wilhelmina case. 363
April 10 From the Consul General at London (telegram). Affidavits to effect that ammunition and guns were not carried on the Falaba. 364
2026 Apr. 10 [Rec’d Apr. 11] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Quotes from North German Gazette an article on sinking of the Falaba as an official answer to American inquiry. 364
1407 Apr. 12 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Owners of the Wilhelmina accept the proposal for British compensation. 365
1408 Apr. 12 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Wico case; seizure of American cargoes by Germans not a justification for their seizure by British. 365
1411 Apr. 12 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Asks if merchant vessels are trained to combat submarines and if rewards are offered for ramming. 365
1136 Mar. 30 [Rec’d Apr. 13] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Encloses copies of the British order in council of March 23, 1915. 366
1917 Apr. 13 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). British have not declared policy regarding arming of merchantmen. 368
1918 Apr. 13 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Reply to inquiry concerning training of merchantmen to attack submarines. 368
1920 Apr. 13 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Movements of the Ogeechee_ _ _ _ _ _ _ 369
1421 Apr. 14 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions to protest against seizure of the Joseph W. Fordney and request release. 369
1422 Apr. 15 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Asks explanation of delay in case of Antilla and similar cases. 369
2044 Apr. 14 [Rec’d Apr. 16] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Transmits official statement on sinking of the Falaba. 370
Apr. 16 To the Consul General at London (telegram). Requests information regarding adjudication of claims by committee rather than by prize court. 370
Apr. 16 From the Consul General at London (telegram). Requests certified copy of manifests of ships proceeding to Europe. 371
Apr. 17 From the Consul General at London (telegram). Adjudication by prize-court committee. 371
1950 Apr. 19 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Suggests plan for avoidance of detention of cargoes. 371
1955 Apr. 19 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). British Government will discharge cargo of the Joseph W. Fordney on ground that it is intended for Germany. 372
Apr. 20 From the Consul General at London (telegram). Discussion with Admiral Slade on practical means of assuring uninterrupted commerce with neutrals. 372
394 Apr. 14 [Rec’d Apr. 27] From the Consul General at London. British indifference to long detention of vessels and proposed relief. 373
406 Apr. 16 [Rec’d Apr. 27] From the Consul General at London. Attitude and note of British Government on reconsignment of goods to the Netherlands Oversea Trust. 374
396 Apr. 13 [Rec’d Apr. 27] From the Consul General at London. Indemnity is required for goods released to owner without going through prize court. Form enclosed. 375
1473 Apr. 27 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Insists on satisfactory statement regarding Joseph W. Fordney case. 376
1998 Apr. 27 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Cargo of the Joseph W. Fordney will be detained; vessel will be released. 376
1583 Apr. 28 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). William P. Frye case to be settled by diplomatic negotiations. Advises transfer of negotiations to German Embassy at Washington. 376
2002 Apr. 28 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Segurança allowed to proceed, consignees having agreed to receive goods through Oversea Trust. 377
255 Apr. 30 From the Minister in the Netherlands (telegram). Bombing of American steamship Cushing. 378
Undated [Rec’d May 3] From the Consul at Plymouth (telegram). American tank steamer Gulflight torpedoed. 378
1500 May 3 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). The same to the Ambassador in Germany. Requests detailed report of torpedoing of Gulflight. 378
May 3 To the Consul General at London (telegram). Protests against detention of the Ogeechee and other vessels. Instructions to seek arrangement for release of shipments by other than prize-court procedure. 379
2042 May 4 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). British holding the Gulflight. Investigations being made. 379
2029 May 4 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Matter of consignee of cargo of the Joseph W. Fordney is being investigated. 380
May 5 To the Consul General at London (telegram). Instructions to ascertain from Russell & Co. their charge for a legal opinion on release of goods under indemnity guarantee and further prosecution of claims. 380
May 5 From the Consul General at London (telegram). Prize court authorities seek means to release cargo of the Ogeechee. Proof of ownership required. 380
1512 May 6 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Further protests against detention of the Segurança and requirement of reconsignment of shipments to Oversea Trust. 381
1514 May 6 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions to report whether the Gulflight was under convoy. 381
May 6 From the Consul General at London (telegram). Detained cargoes: Indemnity guarantee and further prosecution of claims. Gives charge for legal opinion of Russell & Co. 382
412 Apr. 21 [Rec’d May 6] From the Consul General at London. Admiral Slade will try to obtain working arrangement whereby ships’ manifests may be passed upon before ships’ arrival. 382
May 7 To the Consul General at London (telegram). Instructions to arrange with Russell & Co. for opinion of King’s counsel on certain questions concerning prize-court rules. 383

the sinking of the “lusitania”—the note of may 13, 1915, to germany demanding disavowal, reparation, and assurances

[Page LVII][Page LVIII]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
2060 May 7 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). The Lusitania torpedoed off Irish Coast and sunk. 384
2179 May 6 [Rec’d May 7] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Transmits official memorandum advising illumination and plain markings of neutral ships in war zone. 384
2175 May 7 From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). German Admiralty has no news of the Gulflight. 384
May 8 From the Consul General at London (telegram). Convincing evidence of American ownership prior to Mar. 11 may effect release of the Ogeechee. 385
1639 May 8 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Instructions to forward official German report on sinking of the Lusitania. 385
2068 May 8 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Opinion prevails that the United States must declare war on Germany. Allies will cede part of Austria to Italy in return for her alliance. 385
May 9 From the Consul at Cork (telegram). Reports on Lusitania with affidavits of survivors. 386
May 10 Memorandum by the Secretary of State. German Ambassador called and expressed regret for loss of American lives. 387
2198 May 9 [Rec’d May 10] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Transmits official statement regarding attacks made by mistake by German submarines. 387
421 Apr. 27 [Rec’d May 10] From the Consul General at London. Suggests publication of statement regarding payments of freight on detained cargoes. 388
2205 May 10 [Rec’d May 11] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Transmits official statement that Germany regrets loss of American lives on the Lusitania; places responsibility on England. 389
1312 Apr. 30 [Rec’d May 11] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Encloses copy of memorandum to Grey regarding status of detained American ships. 389
2080 May 11 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Lack of definite action on part of the United States in matter of Gulflight and Lusitania arouses contempt of the British. 391
May 12 To the Consul General at London (telegram). Expresses hope of speedy release of the Ogeechee. Shippers advised to forward proof of ownership prior to Mar. 11. 392
425 Apr. 30 [Rec’d May 12] From the Consul General at London. Transmits Foreign Office note explaining difference between cases dealt with by the prize court and those coming under the prize claims committee. 393
1664 May 13 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Protests against hostile acts, demanding disavowal, reparation, and assurances. 393
2234 May 15 [Rec’d May 17] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Lusitania note was submitted by Von Jagow to the authorities. 396
2104 May 16 [Rec’d May 17] From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). General commendation of American note of May 13 to Germany. 397
2105 May 17 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). The Gulflight was directed to follow British patrols to Bishop Rock. Details later. 397
1575 May 17 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions to insist upon release of shipment of cotton on the Beige sold to Norwegian spinner. 398
2226 May 17 [Rec’d May 18] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Asks instructions, in view of certainty of German refusal to abandon submarine warfare. 398
2243 May 17 [Rec’d May 18] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Press comment on the Lusitania note is that Germany will refuse to change her methods of warfare. 398
May 18 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Instructions to keep in touch with Americans in Germany. 398
2122 May 18 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Evidence that cargo of the Joseph W. Fordney is intended for the enemy. 399
2124 May 18 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Reports discussion with Grey on delay in settlement of detained cargoes. 399
2253 May 18 [Rec’d May 19] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Probable German reply to the Lusitania note. 400

new suggestions for an agreement between the belligerents—conversation between the secretary of state and the austro-hungarian ambassador—the torpedoing of the “nebraskan”

[Page LIX][Page LX]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
May 19 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Message from Colonel House asking that German Government be requested to delay answer to the Lusitania note. 400
2130 May 19 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Repeated to the Ambassador in Germany. Proposal from Colonel House to Germany for settlement of submarine question. 400
May 20 From the Third Assistant Secretary. Possibility that German and Austrian Ambassadors are not accurately representing attitude of this country to Germany. 401
2255 May 19 [Rec’d May 20] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Gives Germany’s attitude toward war with America and makes suggestions for relief of the situation. 402
2254 May 19 [Rec’d May 20] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Gives comment of Cologne Gazette on Lusitania note and Germany’s attitude towards the United States. 402
2136 Undated [Rec’d May 20] From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Report on ships carrying cotton detained by British since beginning of the war. 403
May 20 From the Counselor of the British Embassy to the Counselor for the Department of State. Transmits Foreign Office note stating that payment will be made for cotton cargoes upon proper presentation of proof. 404
1596 May 21 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Evidence that the Joseph W. Fordney did not endeavor to elude British patrol ship. 404
2141 May 21 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Reorganization of Government may bring satisfactory settlement of question of cotton and meat cargoes. 405
May 21 From the Consul General at London (telegram). The Government is temporizing in settlement of cotton and meat-product cases. 405
2093 [2153?] May 22 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Informal suggestion to Grey that advance payment of minimum price be made to owners of cotton cargoes without prejudice to final negotiations. 406
1723 May 23 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Instructions to renew with Foreign Office former proposals regarding submarine warfare. 406
2277 May 22 [Rec’d May 23] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Discusses possibility of war between United States and Germany. Dumba’s reported statement regarding Lusitania note. 407
May 24 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Germany must not misunderstand intent of note regarding attack on the Lusitania, etc. Dumba’s reported statement being investigated. 407
May 24 To the President. Dumba’s denial of statement said to have been made by him. Further explanations. 407
1731 May 24 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Transmits despatch from Dumba to German Government stating that his note regarding the Lusitania had made an erroneous impression. 408
1732 May 24 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Transmits for Foreign Office a memorandum of the conversation with Austrian Ambassador as approved by him. 408
61 May 11 [Rec’d May 24] From the Consul at Cork. Review of the Lusitania situation to date. 409
1371 May 11 [Rec’d May 24] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Transmits assurance from Grey that notice will be given of ships detained and report on cargoes of the Marie, Livonia, Dicido, et al. 412
253 May 24 To the Consul General at London. Protests against British detention of non-contraband shipments not reconsigned to Oversea Trust. 413
2166 Undated [Rec’d May 26] From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). American steamer Nebraskan torpedoed. 414
May 26 From the Consul General at London (telegram). Transmits Foreign Office note regarding disposition of the Ogeechee. 414
2289 May 25 [Rec’d May 26] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Shows attitude of German Government in declining proposal of Colonel House. 415
2175 May 25 [Rec’d May 26] From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Officials feel that strong German influence is at work in America and that packers are loading up British with unmarketable products. 415
May 27 Memorandum by the Counselor for the Department of State. Conversation with Spring Rice on subject of embargo of food to Germany. 416
May 27 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). President’s message regarding intolerable conditions in marine war zone and willingness of this Government to act as mediator. 418
May 28 From the Consul at Liverpool (telegram). Official report on torpedoing of the Nebraskan. 418
2189 May 29 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Foreign Office advises that shippers consign cargoes to Oversea Trust. 418
2320 May 28 [Rec’d May 30] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). No change to be made in submarine warfare. 419

the german notes of may 28, 1915, on the “lusitania,” june 1, 1915, on the “gulflight” and “cushing,” and june 7, 1915, on the “frye”—british prize-court cases

[Page LXI][Page LXII]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
2326 May 29 [Rec’d May 31] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Transmits reply of German Government on impairment of American interests by German submarines in the Lusitania case, etc. 419
2198 May 31 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Transmits Foreign Office statement that inability of representatives of American shippers to make definite claim is cause of delayed settlement. 421
2202 May 31 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Cotton cargoes bought at contract price by British Government. Cargo of Helge not interfered with. 421
206 May 31 [Rec’d June 1] From the British Ambassador. Denies that the Lusitania carried guns. 422
1412 May 18 [Rec’d June 1] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Transmits note from Grey giving grounds for detention of the Wico. 422
1442 May 20 [Rec’d June 1] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Statement of shipping conditions and summary of procedure for release of detained ships and cargoes. 423
1468 May 20 [Rec’d June 1] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Transmits memorandum from Grey respecting American ships and cargoes detained at British ports and note verbale explaining memorandum. 427
2337 May 31 [Rec’d June 1] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Von Jagow informs press that Germany will not give up submarines. Quotes from autobiography of Andrew D. White regarding searching of vessels during Spanish-American war. 430
June 2 From the Consul General at London (telegram). Board of Trade has agreed to make advance payment on certain cotton cargoes. 430
1770 June 2 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Requests German official report of attack on the Nebraskan. 430
2346 June 1 [Rec’d June 3] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Transmits German note offering indemnification for attack on the Gulflight. Case of the Cushing not yet determined. 431
458 May 15 [Rec’d June 4] From the Consul General at London. Masters of seized ships required to pay for discharging cargoes in ports of detention. Views of Department requested. 432
2369 June 4 From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). No official report on the Nebraskan. Prospect of arranging difficulties without war. 432
473 May 20 [Rec’d June 5] From the Consul General at London. Encloses note from the procurator general regarding the Belgia, giving interpretation of prize court rules in matter of indemnity signed by American claimants. 433
June 7 From the Consul General at London (telegram). Cargo of the Hilding seized. Requests evidence of innocent destination. Procurator General releasing Ogeechee consignments. 434
1681 June 8 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions to explain to Foreign Office the injury inflicted upon American shippers by British detention even when cargoes are bought by British Government. 434
2391 June 7 [Rec’d June 8] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Transmits reply of German Government in the Frye case. 435

the note of june 9, 1915, to germany on the “lusitania” and other cases—the note of june 24, 1915, on the “frye”

[Page LXIII][Page LXIV]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
1803 June 9 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Further protest against sinking of the Lusitania. 436
2258 June 10 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Renewal of urgent representations to Foreign Office about delay in settlement of cotton cases. 438
2416 June 11 [Rec’d June 12] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Von Jagow thinks second Lusitania note opens way for possible agreement. 439
1820 June 12 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Proposed methods of agreement (Lusitania case) cannot be considered. 439
2424 June 13 [Rec’d June 14] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Asks for suggestions for compromise with Germany in Lusitania case. 439
992 June 1 [Rec’d June 14] From the Ambassador in Germany. Admiral Behncke’s statements regarding the Gulflight, Cushing, and Lusitania. 439
June 14 To the Consul General at London (telegram). Instructions to report conditions under which the Hilding may be released. 441
June 15 From the Consul General at London (telegram). Evidence of innocent destination of cargo of the Hilding, if convincing, will be considered. 441
2426 June 14 [Rec’d June 15] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Lokal-Anzeiger maintains that America is within her rights in exporting ammunition. 441
June 16 From the Consul General at London (telegram). In the Ogeechee and similar cases conclusive proof of payment is required for release of goods. 442
2457 June 18 [Rec’d June 19] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Claim that U–29 was rammed by British merchantman sailing under Swedish flag will have bad effect in Lusitania case. 442
2456 June 18 [Rec’d June 19] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Nothing definite as to reply to Lusitania note. Army and navy against concession. Personal feuds amongst officials. 442
2465 June 20 [Rec’d June 21] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). German note will probably emphasize use of neutral flags to lure submarines and attempt of British merchantmen to ram them. 442
2325 June 22 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Transmits British memorandum on detained ships and cargoes and regulations regarding them. 443
523 June 9 [Rec’d June 22] From the Consul General at London. Transmits opinion of Leslie Scott regarding indemnity guarantee. 447
533 June 11 [Rec’d June 22] From the Consul General at London. Encloses copy of letter to Page regarding cotton seized by British, etc. 448
June 21 [Rec’d June 22] From the Consul General at London (telegram). Enumerates vessels detained by British on grounds of suspicion and calls attention to injustice thereof. 449
2469 June 22 [Rec’d June 23] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Press attack on Government policy. Deutsche Tageszeitung suppressed. 450
1868 June 24 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Frye case not subject for German prize court but for settlement by direct diplomatic negotiations. 450
2501 June 24 [Rec’d June 25] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Attitude of war party and peace party on reply to the Lusitania note. Suggests that the President make overtures. 453
2494 June 25 [Rec’d June 26] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Suspension of newspaper criticized; now permitted to reappear. Public disapproves concessions which would impair efficiency of submarines. 454
2504 June 25 [Rec’d June 27] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Advance information as to contents of German reply to Lusitania note. 454
2498 June 26 [Rec’d June 27] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Meyer-Gerhard reports that America does not want war but is determined upon satisfactory reply to the Lusitania note. 454
June 28 To the Consul General at London (telegram). Requests data regarding export of cotton by British. 455
June 29 From the Consul General at London (telegram). Report on exports from the United Kingdom in 1914 and 1915. 455
1785 June 29 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Requests official statement regarding interpretation of indemnity guarantee. 456
1786 June 29 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions regarding detention of steamers of the Standard Oil Co. 457
2378 June 30 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Reports the sinking of the Armenian by a German submarine. Twenty-one Americans lost. 457
2525 June 30 [Rec’d July 1] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Germans seem willing to pass passenger vessels which guarantee that there is no contraband on board. 457
935 July 2 To the Ambassador in France (telegram). Discussion of differences between this Government and French postponed until after settlement of the Dacia case. 458
2499 July 3 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Helge case receiving attention of the British Government. 458
2395 July 3 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Report on sinking of the Armenian 458
2543 July 3 [Rec’d July 5] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Advises Foreign Office that proposed reply to Lusitania note will not be satisfactory. Changes discussed. 459
2544 July 4 [Rec’d July 5] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Requests information regarding attitude of Americans toward Germany and effect of Bryan’s resignation. Asks for latitude in negotiations. 460
2548 July 5 From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Transmits proposals of Foreign Office in second draft of note. 461
1915 July 6 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Negotiations regarding German reply to note inadvisable. United States unanimous in support of the President. 462
1918 July 8 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). President will not compromise rights of the United States, but will exercise good offices in behalf of neutrals. 462
2562 July 8 [Rec’d July 9] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Announces completion of the German note. 463
2435 July 10 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Report on the Armenian_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 463
[Page LXV]

the german note of july 8, 1915, on the “lusitania”—german memorandum on the “nebraskan”—british prize-court decision in the case of the “zamora” upholding orders in council

No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
2565 July 8 [Rec’d July 10] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Transmits reply of the German Government to the Lusitania note. 463
June 28 [Rec’d July 12] From the Consul General at London. Discusses again detention of American cargoes in British ports and increase in British exports. 466
2571 July 12 From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Suggests that any compromise on part of the United States be made conditional on change of attitude of Germany. 468
July 13 To the Secretary of Commerce. Inadvisable to give to German Government information concerning sailings and arrivals of American vessels other than passenger ships. 468
2573 July 12 [Rec’d July 13] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Transmits foreign Office memorandum explaining that attack on the Nebraskan was a mistake and offering compensation. 468
1947 July 14 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). German reply fails to acknowledge principle for which the United States stands. Compromise impossible. 469
1693 June 29 [Rec’d July 14] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Transmits prize court decision in the Zamora case and comment thereon by Arthur G. Hays. 469

statements of july 14 and 15, 1915, to great britain, denying the legality of actions taken under orders in council: the case of the “neches”

[Page LXVI]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
1848 July 14 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Regarding orders in council, etc., the United States will insist upon rights established by international law. 472
1852 July 15 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions to protest against seizure of cargo of the Neches and insist upon immediate release. 472
1860 July 16 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Restraint of American trade unjustifiable in law. Requests that matter be treated as a cabinet question. 473
2586 July 15 [Rec’d July 16] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Germany would be willing now to recognize principle referred to in note of July 14. 474
2485 July 17 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Transmits résumé of packers’ report on claims of the Kim group of ships. 474
1965 July 18 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Quotes message from Bernstorff to his Government suggesting acceptable reply to the United States on the Lusitania question. 476
July 19 From the Secretary of the Treasury. Inquires about documents in claims cases, for use of Bureau of War Risk Insurance. 477
1968 July 19 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). The United States maintains the right of its citizens to traverse the high seas. 477
1969 July 19 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). The Lusitania case incidental to principle involved. Avoidance of similar acts must be assured. 478
July 19 From the Consul General at London (telegram). Compulsory consignment to Swedish Cotton Spinners Association required. The Texas detained. 478
2491 July 19 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Grey’s opinion of the effect of unrestricted American trade. 478
592 July 9 [Rec’d July 20] From the Consul General at London. Encloses monthly trade report showing increase in exports from England and U. S. ships detained. 479
1878 July 20 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions to verify report that British Government refused responsibility for British subjects leaving Shanghai during Russo-Japanese War. 480

the note of july 21, 1915, to germany on the “lusitania” case—the torpedoing of the “orduna,” the “leelanaw,” and the “iberian”—german note of july 30, 1915, offering settlement of the “frye” case

[Page LXVII][Page LXVIII]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
1981 July 21 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). German note regarding the Lusitania unsatisfactory; demands freedom of the seas without compromise. 480
2609 July 21 [Rec’d July 22] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Foreign Office requests that notification of sailings be made known a month in advance. 482
565 July 3 [Rec’d July 22] From the Consul General at London. Report on the seizure of the Neches by British. 482
July 22 To the Consul General at London (telegram). Requests report on amount of American cotton seized by British since Mar. 11 and amount paid for. 484
2511 July 22 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Validity of order in council of Mar. 11. 484
1987 July 23 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Notification of sailings of passenger steamers to be sent to the German Admiralty. 484
2617 July 23 From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Campaign of hate against America, backed by Von Tirpitz and Reventlow, continues. 484
2527 July 24 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Transmits note from Grey regarding the Neches case and measures taken in March. 485
1993 July 24 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Requests information regarding submarine attack on the Orduna. 485
Undated [Rec’d July 26] From the Consul at Dundee (telegram). American steamer Leelanaw reported sunk by German submarine. 486
July 26 To the Swedish Minister. Desires to discuss subject or uniform representations to British Government in behalf of neutrals. 486
2432 July 26 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Accusation unfounded that British export at a profit the American cotton they seize. 486
July 27 From the Consul General at London (telegram). Reports on sinking of the Leelanaw. 487
July 27 From the Consul General at London (telegram). Holman Gregory to pass on Ogeechee cargo cases; if transactions are bona fide, will favor release. 487
July 27 From the Consul General at London (telegram). Report on American cotton seized by British after Mar. 11. 487
606 July 16 [Rec’d July 27] From the Consul General at London. Settlement of charges in Neches and Seaconnet cases. 488
1194 July 9 [Rec’d July 27] From the Ambassador in Germany. Transmits German note verbale relative to reciprocity of treatment of claimants in prize-court proceedings in Germany and the United States. 489
2536 July 27 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). British approve our latest note to Germany and believe war inevitable. 489
2538 July 27 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Grey gives assurance that British action will bear lightly as possible on American trade. Cotton to be declared contraband. 489
1917 July 28 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Placing cotton on contraband list has aroused indignation of Americans. 490
2634 July 27 [Rec’d July 28] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Germans anxious to end the war before winter; will try to avoid break with America. 490
2547 July 28 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Report on British orders refusing, protection to” subjects leaving Shanghai during the Russo-Japanese War. 491
2652 July 29 [Rec’d July 30] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Germany will offer verbally to submit question of damages for the Lusitania to The Hague. 491
362 July 30 To the Consul General at London. Approves his action in the Neches case. 491
Undated [Rec’d July 31] From the Consul at Cork (telegram). Steamer Iberian submarined. American muleteer killed. 492
Undated [Rec’d July 31] From the Consul at Cork (telegram). Report on destruction of the Iberian and death of Wiley. 492
2022 July 31 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Instructions to report on destruction of the Leelanaw. 492
2656 July 30 [Rec’d July 31] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Transmits note from Von Jagow on sinking of the Frye; liability for indemnification acknowledged. 493

british replies to the statements of july 14 and 15, 1915—swedish overtures for cooperation—note of august 10, 1915, to germany on the “frye” case condemnation of the “dacia” by french prize court—british note of august 13, 1915, on the effects of orders in council on neutral trade

[Page LXIX][Page LXX]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
2573 July 31 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Transmits note from Grey regarding Neches case. British willing to consider neutral interests. 495
Undated [Rec’d July 31] From the Consul at Cork (telegram). Second statement regarding sinking of the Iberian. 496
2575 July 31 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Transmits note from Grey regarding the principles of law applicable in prize-court cases. 496
Aug. 2 To the Secretary of the Treasury. Reply to inquiry of Bureau of War Risk Insurance regarding claims for detained or seized cargoes. 499
49 Aug. 3 From the Chargé in Sweden (telegram). Foreign Office inquiry regarding trade with Scandinavia. 499
29 Aug. 5 To the Chargé in Sweden (telegram). Government is preparing note to British in regard to trade with neutral countries. 499
July 31 [Rec’d Aug. 5] From the Swedish Minister. British limitation of American trade; cooperation of Sweden and the United States in maintaining neutral rights. 500
Aug. 6 To the Swedish Minister. British limitation of American trade with Sweden. 500
Aug. 6 From the British Ambassador. Explanation of note of July 31 concerning the Neches. 501
2700 Aug. 7 [Rec’d Aug. 8] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Chancellor has begged submarine commanders to be careful; Von Tirpitz enraged. 501
629 July 28 [Rec’d Aug. 9] From the Consul General at London. Report on British trade in cotton. 502
1873 July 26 [Rec’d Aug. 9] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Transmits note from Grey and summary of official report on the interception of the Joseph W. Fordney . 503
2057 Aug. 10 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Note for Foreign Office on Frye case: Indemnity to be settled by representatives of each Government; question of treaty interpretation to be submitted to arbitration. 504
363 Aug. 10 To the Consul General at London. Permission to suggest meeting of shipping interests with view to rendering shipping less hazardous. 505
2706 Aug. 9 [Rec’d Aug. 11] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Press comments on the arming of British merchantmen. 506
Aug. 10 [Rec’d Aug. 12] From the Swedish Minister. Discussion of right of belligerent to limit the commercial intercourse of neutrals. 507
942 Aug. 12 [Rec’d Aug. 13] From the Ambassador in France (telegram). Summary of prize court decision in case of the Dacia. 508
2719 Aug. 12 [Rec’d Aug. 13] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Transmits telegram from Consul General Morgan on Frye case. 508
2726 Aug. 13 [Rec’d Aug. 14] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). American vessels passing Drogden lightship to be searched at Swinemünde for contraband. Desires instructions regarding protests. 509
309 July 29 [Rec’d Aug. 14] From the Chargé in Sweden. Trade between the United States and Sweden. 509
94 July 31 [Rec’d Aug. 16] From the Consul at Cork. Confirmation of report on the Iberian and death of Wiley. 510
2634 Aug. 16 [Rec’d Aug. 17] From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Transmits note from Grey and quotes his memorandum to the Foreign Office on British exports. 511
2083 Aug. 17 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Admits established right of visit and search but protests taking of vessels to belligerent ports without just cause for suspicion. 515
Aug. 18 To the Consul General at London (telegram). Questionnaire regarding detained cotton cargoes. 515
Aug. 20 From the Consul General at London (telegram). Answer to questionnaire regarding detained cotton cargoes. 516

the sinking of the “arabic”—german prize-court decision in the case of the “indian prince” dismissing claims for american cargo—use of the american flag by british auxiliary cruiser “baralong”

[Page LXXI]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
Undated [Rec’d Aug. 19] From the Vice Consul at Cork (telegram). Arabic sunk off Queenstown_ _ _ _ _ _ _ 516
Undated [Rec’d Aug. 20] From the Vice Consul at Cork (telegram). Report on sinking of the Arabic and statement of a passenger. 517
Aug. 21 To the Consul at Cork (telegram). Instructions to report summary of affidavits in the Arabic case. 517
Aug. 21 To the Swedish Minister. Desires to know Swedish Government’s position on limitation of Swedish imports by Great Britain. 517
Undated [Rec’d Aug. 22] From the Consul at Cork (telegram). No evidence that the Arabic was warned by submarine or convoyed by war vessel. 518
Aug. 23 From the Consul General at London (telegram). The Baron Erskine destroyed by submarine. 518
2105 Aug. 23 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Instructions to inquire unofficially if report has been made on the Arabic. 518
2680 Aug. 23 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Summary of facts regarding the Arabic with affidavits of the captain and others. 518
315 Aug. 5 [Rec’d Aug. 23] From the Consul General at Hamburg. Transmits prize-court decision in Indian Prince case. 520
651 Aug. 10 [Rec’d Aug. 24] From the Consul General at London. Transmits report of proceedings in packing-house cases in prize court. 523
Aug. 24 From the German Ambassador (telegram). No official information about sinking of the Arabic. 524
2686 Aug. 24 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Gives conservative public opinion and press comment on U. S. failure to act. 524
Aug. 24 [Rec’d Aug. 25] From the German Ambassador. Submits for transmission to his Government suggestion regarding attacks on passenger ships without warning. 525
2272 Aug. 24 [Rec’d Aug. 25] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Attack on the Arabic supposedly by order of Von Tirpitz. Von Jagow requests suspension of judgment. 525
2777 Aug. 25 [Rec’d Aug. 26] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Torpedoing of Arabic, if as reported, contrary to instructions regarding passenger ships; act may be disavowed and reparation made. 526
2780 Aug. 25 [Rec’d Aug. 26] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Suggests that Department make road to disavowal easy in Arabic case, lest Von Tirpitz again get upper hand in Germany. 526
2703 Aug. 26 [Rec’d Aug. 27] From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). American sailor affirms that the Nicosian was attacked by a submarine which was in turn sunk by a naval auxiliary ship. 527
2791 Aug. 28 [Rec’d Aug. 29] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Fight between Von Tirpitz and Chancellor over submarine policy. Decision rests with the Emperor. Foreign Office and Reichstag against war with America. 527
2716 Aug. 29 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Affidavits of American citizens describing attack on the Nicosian. 528
2803 Aug. 30 [Rec’d Aug. 31] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Chancellor prevailed in dispute with Von Tirpitz regarding submarine war. German program. 529
Aug. 31 To Breitung & Co., Ltd. The Dacia: Local legal remedies should be exhausted before diplomatic intervention is appropriate. 530
2809 Aug. 31 [Rec’d Sept. 1] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). German Government anxious that Arabic case and Lusitania case be considered separately. 530

the german promise of september 1, 1915, not to sink liners without warning—the case of the “hesperian”

[Page LXXII][Page LXXIII]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
Sept. 1 From the German Ambassador. Liners will not be sunk by German submarines without warning, provided they do not offer resistance or try to escape. 530
2819 Sept. 1 [Rec’d Sept. 2] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Foreign Office of opinion that there is little danger of break with the United States. 531
2817 Sept. 1 [Rec’d Sept. 2] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Germany working for delay. The sooner demands are made, the greater probability that they will be granted. 531
Sept. 2 To the Consul General at London (telegram). Inquires whether charges for unloading seized shipments have been imposed upon vessels. 531
Sept. 3 From the Consul General at London (telegram). Communicates ruling regarding expenses of vessels seized and brought to port. 532
2824 Sept. 2 [Rec’d Sept. 3] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Bernstorff given wide discretion in settlement of submarine question. 532
2744 Sept. 3 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Transmits announcement of prize-claims committee recommending procedure in making claims for seized cargoes. 533
Sept. 3 From the German Ambassador. Only submarine which might have sunk the Arabic has not returned. No explanation possible. 533
Sept. 5 From the Consul at Cork (telegram). The Hesperian torpedoed by submarine. 533
2838 Sept. 5 [Rec’d Sept. 6] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Pope responsible for change of German submarine policy. 534
Undated [Rec’d Sept. 7] From the Consul at Cork (telegram). Transmits joint affidavit of the officers regarding the torpedoing of the Hesperian. 534
A 5476 Sept. 4 [Rec’d Sept. 7] From the German Ambassador. Protests that certain merchant vessels have fired on German submarines. 535
397 Sept. 7 To the Consul General at Hamburg. Transmits copy of letter to J. H. Hayden regarding the Indian Prince: Legal remedies must be exhausted before recourse to diplomatic intervention. 535
2154 Sept. 7 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Requests official statement regarding the Arabic. 536
2155 Sept. 7 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Requests official information regarding sinking of the Hesperian. 537
2854 Sept. 7 [Rec’d Sept. 8] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Inquiry as to developments in submarine negotiations. 537
2771 Sept. 8 [Rec’d Sept. 9] From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). The United States is losing the respect of foreign governments because of delayed action on submarine outrages. 537
Sept. 9 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Department impatiently awaiting instructions to submarine commanders. 538
Sept. 8 [Rec’d Sept. 9] From the German Ambassador. The case of the Hesperian, an armed vessel, has no bearing on destruction of unarmed merchantmen. 538

the german notes of september 7, 1915, on the “arabic,” september 9, 1915, on the “orduna,” and september 19, 1915, on the “frye”

[Page LXXIV]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
2855 Sept. 7 [Rec’d Sept. 9] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Transmits official report of the sinking of the Arabic. 539
Sept. 8 [Rec’d Sept. 9] From the German Ambassador. Attack on the Arabic, if without warning, was contrary to instructions. 540
1241 Sept. 9 To the Ambassador in Germany. Reply to German note regarding reciprocity of treatment of claimants in prize-court proceedings in Germany and the United States. 540
Sept. 9 To the Consul General at London (telegram). The Seaconnet: Release of shipments would show improper seizure. Asks if officials are not trying to avoid payment of indemnity. 541
666 Aug. 17 [Rec’d Sept. 10] From the Consul General at London. Shipping interests are adjusting themselves to order in council of Mar. 11. Fewer ships detained. 541
Aug. 31 [Rec’d Sept. 10] From the Consul General at London. Prize court directs Crown to pay demurrage to owners of the Stigstad. 542
2861 Sept. 9 [Rec’d Sept. 10] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Von Tirpitz seems to overrule the Chancellor and the Emperor. Internal politics complicate war policy. 542
2860 Sept. 9 [Rec’d Sept. 10] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Change in submarine policy due to Navy rather than Foreign Office. 543
Sept. 10 From the Consul General at London (telegram). Payment by owners of expenses incurred in connection with detention of cargoes. 544
2866 Sept. 10 [Rec’d Sept. 11] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Request for report on the Hesperian refused. 545
2182 Sept. 11 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). The United States is as concerned in cases where American citizens are endangered as in cases where there has been loss of American lives. 545
2867 Sept. 10 [Rec’d Sept. 11] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Transmits official report of attack on the Orduna. 545
664 Aug. 17 [Rec’d Sept. 14] From the Consul General at London. Transmits copy of his protest to procurator general regarding claims for compensation. 546
2186 Sept. 14 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Note for Foreign Office giving summary of evidence on sinking of the Arabic. 547
376 Sept. 15 From the Minister in the Netherlands (telegram). Public opinion here is that Germany is indifferent to America’s attitude. 548
2891 Sept. 14 [Rec’d Sept.15] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Transmits Foreign Office note disclaiming responsibility for sinking of the Hesperian. 548
Sept. 16 From the Consul General at London (telegram). Prize-court judgment against American packing houses. 549
2900 Sept. 16 [Rec’d Sept. 17] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Military convention between Germany and Bulgaria. Germans and Austrians to invade Servia. 549
2214 Sept. 20 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Interview with Bernstorff giving status of Arabic case. 549
Sept. 20 From the Consul General at London (telegram). Norwegian ship Vitalia detained. New conditions imposed by the Netherlands Trust. 550
2911 Sept. 20 [Rec’d Sept.22] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Transmits German note on reparation in the Frye case. 551
420 Sept. 22 To the Consul General at London (telegram). Approves protest regarding claims for compensation. 552
A 5764 Sept. 22 [Rec’d Sept.23] From the German Ambassador. His Government pleased that settlement of submarine question is left to him. 552
2921 Sept. 22 [Rec’d Sept.23] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Bernstorff empowered to offer to refer Lusitania and Arabic cases to The Hague. Orders to submarines regarding liners. 553

reports of advantages gained by british trade under the orders in council

[Page LXXV]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
Sept. 21 From Stanley Jordan & Co. Protests against British restrictions on neutral trade. 553
Sept. 9 [Rec’d Sept.22] From the Consul General at London. Monthly report on British trade 555
Undated [Rec’d Sept.24] From the Consul at Cork (telegram). Report of torpedoing of the Anglo-Columbian. 556
2930 Sept. 24 [Rec’d Sept.25] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Transmits German note claiming that drifting mines which sank the Hesperian were not of German origin. 556
Sept. 27 From the Consul General at London (telegram). Packers propose that Vitalia cargo be sent to Rotterdam to be resold through the Trust. Procurator refuses request. 556
2178 Sept. 27 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Department agreeably to simultaneous publication of Embassy’s memorandum of June 3 and Foreign Office note of Aug. 13. 557
2869 Sept. 27 [Rec’d Sept.28] From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Transmits British request for permission to publish correspondence regarding reports on British trade. 557
2879 Sept. 28 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Sets date for simultaneous publication of correspondence regarding British trade. 558
174 Sept. 28 From the Minister in Denmark (telegram). Progress of British secret methods of destruction of German submarines. 558
726 Sept. 16 [Rec’d Oct. 2] From the Consul General at London. Reports improvement in trading conditions. Arrangements made with guarantee companies. 559

the german note of october 5, 1915, offering disavowal and reparation in the “arabic” case: acceptance by the united states—discussion of adverse decision of british prize court in the packers’ cases—note of october 12, 1915, to germany accepting arbitration in the “frye” case

[Page LXXVI]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
Oct. 5 From the German Ambassador German Government disavows attack on the Arabic; will negotiate regarding indemnity. 560
Oct. 6 To the German Ambassador. German note on the Arabic satisfactory. Department ready to negotiate regrarding indemnity. 560
Oct. 6 From Messrs. Henry Veeder, Charles J. Faulkner, jr., and Luther M. Walter, counsel for the American packers. Comments on British judgment of confiscation of shipments on the Kim group of vessels. 561
2241 Oct. 8 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions to protest against detention of Standard Oil steamer Petrolite. 564
Oct. 8 To the Consul General at London (telegram). Instructions to report on prize-court proceedings in cases of seizure. 564
363 Oct. 6 [Rec’d Oct. 9] From the British Ambassador. Gives explanation of British action in meat packers’ claims. 564
2990 Oct. 9 [Rec’d Oct. 10] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Transmits official notice denying great submarine losses. 566
Oct. 11 From the Consul General at London (telegram). Omnibus writ covers seizure as suspected contraband and German destination. 566
Undated [Rec’d Oct. 12] From the British Embassy. Memorandum on the ultimate destination of meat shipments to Scandinavian ports. 566
2291 Oct. 12 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Note for Foreign Office on details for settlement of the Frye case. 570
2272 Oct. 13 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). The same to the Minister in Denmark. Instructions to investigate report that to avoid seizure of foodstuffs permission must be obtained from London before shipment. 571
350 Sept. 23 [Rec’d Oct. 14] From the Consul General at Hamburg. Transmits decision of German supreme prize court in Glitra case, with comments. 571
Oct. 14 From the Consul General at London (telegram). Board of Trade decides to make final settlement on American cotton. 575
A 6385 Oct. 15 From the German Ambassador. Submits affidavits of Americans regarding British use of American flag in attack on German submarine. 575
177 Oct. 16 [Rec’d Oct. 17] From the Minister in Denmark (telegram). Communicated to the Ambassador in Great Britain. British intention to seize all packers’ goods. Effect upon Scandinavian American Line. 576
2297 Oct. 18 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions to investigate report that British ships flying the American flag have attacked German submarines. 576
3058 Oct. 20 [Rec’d Oct. 21] From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). The Petrolite: Foreign Office deems it necessary to check up evidence on board ship regarding neutral trade. 577
[Page LXXVII]

the note op october 21, 1915, to great britain contesting the legality of interferences with neutral ships and cargoes

No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
Oct. 21 To the Ambassador in Great Britain. Note to Foreign Office contesting the legality of interference with neutral ships and cargoes. 578
2299 Oct. 8 [Rec’d Oct. 26] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Transmits foreign Office statement of reasons for proceedings against the Joseph W. Fordney . 601
2300 Oct. 8 [Rec’d Oct. 28] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Transmits British note on the Vitalia, denying that Government has created a carrying monoply. 602
2350 Oct. 28 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Inquiry regarding military control over imports. 603
3121 Oct. 30 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). British Government has informal arrangement with Danish steamship lines. 603
3059 Oct. 30 [Rec’d Nov. 1] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Transmits note from Foreign Office on settlement of the Arabic case. 603
1170 Nov. 1 To the Ambassador in France (telegram). Instructions to present to the Foreign Office copy of Department’s note to Great Britain regarding interference with trade. 604
2392 Oct. 22 [Rec’d Nov. 1] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Report on use of American flag by British and arming of British merchantmen. 604
1843 Nov. 1 To the Ambassador in Great Britain. Regarding the Hesperian and the Arabic, Secretary of the Navy reports that fragment of metal is part of a torpedo. 607
1672 Oct. 19 [Rec’d Nov. 1] From the Ambassador in Germany. Transmits Foreign Office statement on sinking of the Leelanaw. 607

cases arising under the british order in council of october 20, 1915, annulling article 57 of the declaration of london: seizure of the “hocking” and the “genesee”—the sinking of the “ancona”

[Page LXXVIII][Page LXXIX]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
2390 Nov. 2 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions to request explanation of seizure of the Hocking. 608
2394 Nov. 3 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Protest against detention of the Joseph W. Fordney and instructions to request release. 608
3154 Nov. 4 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Asks if note to Great Britain should imply that its policy is to increase trade at expense of America. This has repeatedly been denied. 609
2405 Nov. 4 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Note to Great Britain should show effect of increased British trade. 609
Nov. 9 From the Minister in China (telegram). British restrictions on American trade in China; merchants blacklisted. 610
375 Nov. 10 To the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Requests report on sinking of the Ancona. 611
427 Nov. 10 From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Reports American lives lost on the Ancona. 611
3192 Nov. 10 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). British believe the Hocking to be enemy-owned. 611
Nov. 11 To the President of the American Trans-Atlantic Co. Ownership of Hocking and other vessels recently registered under American flag may be challenged. 612
Undated [Rec’d Nov.15] From the Italian Minister of Foreign Affairs to the Italian Embassy at Washington (telegram). Note to the United States denouncing conduct of the enemy in the sinking of the Ancona. 613
Nov. 15 [Rec’d Nov. 16] From the Austro-Hungarian Chargé Official announcement of Austria-Hungary on sinking of the Ancona. 614
987 Nov. 16 To the Ambassador in Austria-Hungary (telegram). Instructions to report on sinking of the Ancona. 614
37 Nov. 17 From the Minister in Norway (telegram). British agree to waive right of search of vessels of Norwegian American Line under certain conditions. 615
Undated [Rec’d Nov. 18] From the Consul at Algiers (telegram). Deposition regarding destruction of the Ancona and report on number of vessels sunk. 615
3236 Nov. 19 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). The Helen W. Martin damaged by a mine. 615
Nov. 18 [Rec’d Nov. 20] From the Swedish Minister. Enforcement of trade rights. 616
Nov. 20 From the Minister in China (telegram). British ships instructed to refuse American cargoes in China and Japan. Suggests method of retaliation. 616
1110 Nov. 21 From the Ambassador in France (telegram). Additional information regarding the Ancona and the France. 617
2477 Nov. 3 [Rec’d Nov. 23] From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Transmits note relating to alleged use of U. S. flag by British vessels. 618
991 Nov. 23 [Rec’d Nov. 24] From the Ambassador in Austria-Hungary (telegram). Report on sinking of the Ancona not yet received. List of Austro-Hungarian submarines. 619
3297 Nov. 27 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). British Government to continue proceedings Joseph W. Fordney case. 619
Nov. 28 From the Consul at Algiers (telegram). Depositions of three survivers of the Ancona filed with Greek Consulate. 620
2447 Nov. 30 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Owners of the Leelanaw not represented before prize court; this Government desires question to be settled by diplomatic negotiations. 620
2516 Nov. 30 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions to protest against the proposed requisitioning of the Hocking and the Genesee. 620
2517 Nov. 30 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Hopes that seizure of the Hocking and the Genesee will be sufficient test of ownership of all vessels purchased by Transatlantic Trading Co. 621
Dec. 3 To Messrs. Henry Veeder, Charles J. Faulkner, jr., and Luther M. Walter, counsel for American packers. Reply to request for diplomatic interference in packers’ interests. 621
3172 Dec. 2 [Rec’d Dec. 3] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). German reply to inquiry regarding military authority Over importation of foodstuffs. 622
Dec. 6 To Representative Charles P. Caldwell. Reply to resolutions of a committee of citizens regarding the Baralong case: Conflicting evidence; matter under consideration. 622

the note of december 6, 1915, to austria-hungary demanding disavowal and reparation in the “ancona” case—british memorandum of december 13, 1915, denying discrimination against american trade

[Page LXXX]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
1011 Dec. 6 To the Ambassador in Austria-Hungary (telegram). The United States demands that Austria-Hungary denounce the sinking of the Ancona, punish the officers, and make reparation. 623
Undated [Rec’d Dec. 9] From the British Ambassador. Grey would set up unofficial committee to examine specific cases of delayed cargoes. 625
Undated [Rec’d Dec. 10] From the Consul at Algiers (telegram). Reports attack on the Petrolite_ _ _ 625
3376 Dec. 10 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Transmits note from Grey regarding status of ships purchased by Transatlantic Trading Co. 625
1024 Dec. 13 To the Ambassador in Austria-Hungary (telegram). Transmits despatch from Chargé at Washington to Burian: Safety of travelers in submarine war. 626
Dec. 13 Memorandum by the Secretary of State. Conversation with the Austro-Hungarian Chargé regarding the Ancona note. 627
475 Nov. 18 [Rec’d Dec. 13] From the Minister in Sweden. Transmits decree of Oct. 29 concerning the convoying of Swedish merchant vessels in time of war. 627
2034 Dec. 14 To the Ambassador in Great Britain. Protests the flagrant disregard of rights of the Standard Oil Co. 629
Dec. 13 [Rec’d Dec. 14] From the British Ambassador. Gives figures showing that British shippers are not profiting by war measures to detriment of Americans. 630
3723 Dec. 13 [Rec’d Dec. 14] From the Netherland Minister. His Government has protested against seizure of the Hamborn. Inquires attitude of the United States in the Hocking case. 638

the austro-hungarian note of december 15, 1915, regarding the “ancona”—german note of november 29, 1915, proposing arbitration “compromis” in the “frye” case

[Page LXXXI]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
1027 Dec. 15 [Rec’d Dec. 16] From the Ambassador in Austria-Hungary (telegram). Transmits note in reply to American demands for denunciation of sinking of the Ancona. 638
Dec. 16 To the Swedish Minister. Acknowledges note from Swedish Government regarding interference by belligerents with neutral commerce. 640
A 8257 Dec. 17 From the German Embassy. Statement of the Austro-Hungarian Chargé, for transmission to his Government, of U. S. principles and demands in the Ancona case. 640
420 Dec. 17 To the Ambassador in Italy (telegram)” Instructions to obtain names of Americans on the Ancona and those lost or injured. 641
2599 Dec. 18 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions to take up with Foreign Office British interference with American trade in China. 641
A 8293 Dec. 18 From the German Embassy. Message of the Austro-Hungarian Chargé for transmission to his Government, proposing that Austria-Hungary give same pledge as Germany and leave the Ancona case for diplomatic negotiations. 642
1947 Nov. 30 [Rec’d Dec. 18] From the Ambassador in Germany. Transmits reply of German Foreign Office relative to reciprocity of treatment of claimants in prize-court proceedings in Germany and the United States. 642
1964 Dec. 2 [Rec’d Dec. 18] From the Ambassador in Germany. Transmits Foreign Office note regarding settlement by committee of Frye indemnity and draft of arbitration compromis for settlement of legal questions. 644
498 Dec. 18 [Rec’d Dec. 19] From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Reports number of Americans on the Ancona and the known survivors. 646
3238 Dec. 18 [Rec’d Dec. 19] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Chancellor anxious to keep friendly relations and settle Frye and Ancona cases. Cipher messages from Foreign Office to be sent through the Embassy. 647
A 8324 Dec. 19 From the German Embassy. Message of the Austro-Hungarian Chargé, for transmission to his Government, that suggested solution of the Ancona case is not acceptable to the United States. 647

the note of december 19, 1915, to austria-hungary regarding the “ancona”—renewal of efforts to settle the “lusitania” case—british admiralty instructions to merchant ships with reference to submarines—the control of foodstuffs by the german government

[Page LXXXII]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
1039 Dec. 19 To the Ambassador in Austria-Hungary (telegram). Note for Foreign Office repeating demands in the Ancona case. 647
2518 Dec. 20 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). German Ambassador has privilege of communicating with Foreign Office through Department regarding the Lusitania. 648
A 8351 Dec. 21 From the German Embassy. Encloses despatch for transmission to Von Jagow urging swift settlement of the Lusitania case. 648
Dec. 21 To the German Embassy. Gerard is instructed to transmit messages concerning the Lusitania to Bernstorff through the Department. 649
A 8470 Dec. 24 From the German Embassy. Message of the Austro-Hungarian Chargé for transmission to his Government, urging prompt reply to U. S. note on the Ancona case. 649
3269 Dec. 24 [Rec’d Dec. 25] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Germany will try to prevent break between Austria-Hungary and the United States. Time is propitious for forcing settlement of the Lusitania case. 650
2675 Dec. 11 [Rec’d Dec. 29] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Transmits note from Grey denying that the Baralong attacked a submarine while flying a neutral flag. 650
Dec. 11 [Rec’d Dec. 29] From the Consul General at London. Prize-court hearings have been suspended. 651
Dec. 27 [Rec’d Dec. 29] From the British Ambassador. Further statement regarding increased exports from England during the war. 651
2652 Dec. 30 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Representatives of packers have been sent to treat with British Government direct. 652
2013 Dec. 10 [Rec’d Dec. 30] From the Ambassador in Germany. Transmits photographic copies of confidential Admiralty instructions to British merchant vessels. 652
2034 Dec. 14 [Rec’d Dec. 30] From the Ambassador in Germany. Transmits Foreign Office note explaining to what extent German military authorities have superseded civil authorities. 654

the austro-hungarian note of december 29, 1915, admitting liability in the “ancona” case

No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
1064 Dec. 29 [Rec’d Dec. 30] From the Ambassador in Austria-Hungary (telegram). Transmits reply of Foreign Office to U. S. protest in the Ancona case. 655
3487 Dec. 31 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Reports recent sinking of eight ships by German submarines. Liners delay sailing. 658
2084 Dec. 21 [Rec’d Jan. 3, 1916] From the Ambassador in Germany. Transmits Foreign Office note explaining treatment accorded American vessels. 658
142 Jan. 13, 1916 To the Netherland Minister. Department is not yet ready to announce its position on the Hocking case. 659
2745 Dec. 28 [Rec’d Jan. 13, 1916] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Transmits copy of his protest to Grey regarding payment for forwarding non-contraband goods discharged from the Esrom. 659
[Page LXXXIII]

British Embargoes on Exports

[Page LXXXIV]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
Jan. 6 From the Consul General at Sydney, Australia, (telegram). Australian exportation of wool, etc., to America permitted in British ships under guarantee against reexport. 661
12 Jan. 8 [Rec’d Jan. 9] From the British Ambassador. Transmits note from Grey announcing that the United States can obtain rubber from British Empire. 661
Jan. 14 From the Consul General at Sydney, Australia (telegram). Wool, etc., to the United States allowed in American ships under same conditions as in British ships. 662
22 Jan. 15 [Rec’d Jan. 16] From the British Ambassador. Transmits note from Grey regarding exportation of wool to the United States under certain guarantee. 662
Jan. 20 To the British Ambassador. Inquires whether restrictions on exports include rubber obtained from countries other than Great Britain. 663
48 Feb. 3 [Rec’d Feb. 5] From the British Ambassador. Reply to note regarding guarantee of manufacturers desiring to obtain rubber from Great Britain. 663
Undated From the British Foreign Office. Form of agreement to be signed by importers of rubber from British dominions and by manufacturers to whom such rubber is sold. 664
Feb. 9 From the Consul General at Sydney, Australia (telegram). Embargo on wool reimposed_ _ _ _ 665
817 Jan. 29 [Rec’d Feb. 10] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Working plan for exportation of wool from the United Kingdom to the United States. Encloses proposed agreement between the Textile Alliance and the British Board of Trade. 665
Feb. 23 From the Consul General at London (telegram). Inquiries concerning export of prohibited goods to be sent to War Trade Department. Wool to be forwarded under license to U. S. Textile Alliance. 667
Undated [Rec’d Feb. 26] From the Consul General at Sydney, Australia (telegram). Wool may be shipped to the United States as previously provided. 667
1056 Mar. 15 [Rec’d Mar. 29] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Transmits note from Grey permitting shipments of manganese to U. S. Steel Products Co., subject to guarantee. Form enclosed. 667
1137 June 19 To the Ambassador in Great Britain. Reported issuance of license to Bradford firms to export yarns from crossbred wools when export of crossbred wool is forbidden. 668
1772 July 8 [Rec’d July 20] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Board of Trade permits export of wool to the United States on condition that equivalent quantity of manufactured tops and yarns are exported to Great Britain. 669

Regulations Issued by Belligerent Governments for the Navigation of Mined Waters

No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
B 4884 Mar. 26 From the German Ambassador. Reply to note on sinking of the Evelyn. Pilot employed was Dutch. Advises northern route and German pilots. 669
1592 May 20 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Asks explanation of new notice on navigation of the North Sea. 670
May 19 [Rec’d June 4] From the Consul General at London. Transmits circular notice on navigation in the North Sea and English Channel. 671
2236 June 5 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Transmits note from Foreign Office explaining that notice on navigation is a summary of existing regulations. 672
1721 June 16 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Department at loss to understand object of British in regulating courses of foreign vessels on the high seas. 673
2517 July 23 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Transmits note from Foreign Office explaining risk to vessels in vicinity of British Isles unless they act in accord with directions of the Admiralty. 673
1908 July 26 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Inquires if special Admiralty directions apply in case of vessels sailing from America. 673
2638 Aug. 17 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Transmits Grey’s reply regarding route taken by ships. Should sail with consent of country whose flag they fly. 674

the transfer of foreign merchant ships to the american flag

[Page LXXXV][Page LXXXVI][Page LXXXVII]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
Jan. 2 [Rec’d Jan. 5] Memorandum by the British Embassy. The Dacia has applied for transfer to American flag. British Government reserves right to pass judgment on validity of transfer. 674
Jan. 5 From Mr. John T. Walsh (telegram). Asks if Government will guarantee protection of German steamer bought by Americans, carrying cotton to Germany. 675
Jan. 9 To Mr. John T. Walsh (telegram). Replies that this Government will not guarantee protection in advance. British and French may contest the transfer. 675
Jan. 9 To the British Embassy. Acknowledges receipt of memorandum on the Dacia. 675
Jan. 12 From the British Ambassador. Attitude of British Government regarding transfer of flag after outbreak of hostilities. 676
Jan. 12 From the British Ambassador. Opinion as to advisability of bonafide purchase of German ship for trade between neutral ports. 677
Jan. 13 To the British Ambassador. British Government is asked not to raise question of transfer in case of the Dacia. 678
956 Jan. 14 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions to present to Grey the situation regarding the Dacia, with request not to raise question of transfer. 678
966 Jan. 15 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Inquires attitude of British Government toward German vessel bought by Americans for trade with Great Britain. 679
1473 Jan. 15 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Cargo of the Dacia would be bought by British Government and vessel put in prize court. 679
Jan. 15 [Rec’d Jan. 16] From the British Ambassador. Grey’s views on transfer of the Dacia. German naval prize regulations quoted in support of stand taken. 680
Jan. 16 [Rec’d Jan. 18] From the French Ambassador. Protests the transfer of German ships to American flag giving reasons. 681
1486 Jan. 18 [Rec’d Jan. 19] From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Grey says that for America to buy German ships and place them on the sea would annul victories England has gained with her navy. 682
Jan. 19 From the British Ambassador. Liberating interned ships during hostilities may be termed intervention. 683
1501 Jan. 21 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). The Cabinet has not yet passed on subject of transfer of flag. 684
1019 Jan. 23 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). The President’s answer to notes regarding transfer of vessels to American flag. Discusses attitude of American Government and citizens toward war measures of belligerents. 684
Jan. 21 [Rec’d Jan. 23] From the British Ambassador. The Dacia has become test case involving far-reaching consequences. Government willing to show special consideration for cargo. 687
1539 Jan. 27 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Asks that matter under discussion with Grey will not be acted on until after the Dacia case has been settled. 688
Jan. 29 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Rule for transfer of ships during war. 688
Feb. 1 To the French Ambassador. U. S. Government prefers not to enter into discussion of question of ship transfer prior to passage of shipping bill. 689
Feb. 4 To the British Ambassador. Dacia case: Attitude of owners of cargo toward proposed action of the British Government. 689
Feb. 13 Memorandum by the Secretary of State. Statement of the Russian Minister that his Government adheres to the position of the French Government regarding the transfer of ships to American flag. 690
Feb. 16 [Rec’d Feb. 18] From the French Ambassador. States position of his Government on transfer of enemy ships to American flag. 690
Mar. 19 [Rec’d Mar.23] From the British Ambassador. Conditions on which British Government would recognize as valid the transfer of a ship from enemy to neutral flag. 691
1302 Apr. 29 [Rec’d May 11] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Requests instructions regarding attitude of British Government toward the purchase of a German vessel by Port Blakely Mill Co. 692
Undated [Rec’d May 17] From the Consul General at Copenhagen (telegram). American Transatlantic Co. purchasing Danish steamers. 692
May 25 To the Ambassador in Great Britain. Inadvisable to take any action which might be construed as acknowledgment of British right to determine status of vessels transferred to American flag. 692
June 12 To the Consul General at Copenhagen (telegram). Instructions to issue no more certificates to ships involved in transactions of Jensen and American Transatlantic Co. 693
June 12 To the Consuls Liverpool and Christiania (telegram). Transfer of the Lapland to American flag cannot be recognized. 693
June 16 From the Commissioner of Navigation, Department of Commerce, to the New York Maritime Reaister. Transfer of the Gotland and seven others to American registry not bona fide Jensen imprisoned. 693
July 29 To the Acting Secretary of Commerce. No reason why American Transatlantic Co. may not be given American registry for eleven steamships bought from neutral countries for South American trade. 694
Aug. 10 To the Consul at Liverpool (telegram). Department of Commerce directs provisional-register papers be issued to the Lapland. 694
Aug. 19 To the Secretary of Commerce. The Government can give no assurance that American claim to ownership of the Laura will not be challenged by belligerents. 695
Dec. 1 From Mr. James Harold Warner. Purchase of interned ships of belligerents by Americans. Inquiry regarding Government protection of ship and cargo. 695
Dec. 11 To Mr. James Harold Warner. Statement of U. S. attitude toward the purchase of interned ships by Americans. 696

Censorship of the Cables by Belligerent Governments

[Page LXXXVIII][Page LXXXIX][Page XC][Page XCI][Page XCII]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
864 Dec. 31, 1914 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions to urge needs of American shippers in respect to censorship of government cable lines in Europe. Forwards Senator Hardwick’s protests against interruption in delivery to Sweden and Italy. 697
1400 Jan. 4 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Grey requests release of a telegram from British firm to the Bahamas, stopped by censors in Florida. 697
889 Jan. 5 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Department will forward messages if in plain commercial language. 697
1416 Jan. 5 [Rec’d Jan. 6] From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Suggestions for facilitating cable service for cotton trade. 698
1430 Jan. 7 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Each government must insist that plain language be used in telegrams without technical terms. 698
1437 Jan. 8 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Suspicion of commercial technical terms continues to hamper telegraph service. 699
922 Jan. 9 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Inquires if senders of stopped messages can be notified. 699
923 Jan. 9 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). U. S. Government censors only radiotelegraphic messages. Plain language necessary. 699
1454 Jan. 11 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Censors hold that to inform senders of stopping of messages would defeat purpose of censorship. 700
938 Jan. 12 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Insists that commercial firms should be notified immediately of stopped messages. 700
464 Jan. 16 From the Ambassador in France (telegram). Bentley, Broomhall, and Meyer codes admitted for telegraph messages. 700
1495 Jan. 20 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Explanation of stoppage of Kehlor message. British claim right to prevent the use of their cables to further enemy trade. 701
1007 Jan. 21 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions to call attention of Foreign Office to disastrous effects of their holding up cables from United States to Denmark. 701
496 Jan. 22 To the Ambassador in France (telegram). Instructions to try to arrange that stopped telegrams be reported to him daily. 702
1514 Jan. 22 [Rec’d Jan. 23] From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). British discriminate between bonafide neutral telegrams and those suspected of promoting trade with enemy. 702
487 Jan. 23 From the Ambassador in France (telegram). French give assurance that when message is denied, sender will be notified. 702
1030 Jan. 25 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions to ask British to facilitate telegraphic communication. 703
1541 Jan. 28 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Meyer’s Atlantic cotton code may be employed in certain telegrams. 703
1570 Feb. 1 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Censorship of commercial cables is war measure; no hope for mitigation. 703
79 Jan. 11 [Rec’d Feb. 2] From the Consul at Göteborg. Telegrams from Göteborg firms to New York bank intercepted. 704
1061 Feb. 2 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Department will continue to send copies of telegrams for submission to British authorities with request for reason for stoppage. 704
584 Feb. 3 To the Ambassador in Great Britain. Western Union suggests that British rely upon French to stop objectionable messages passing through France via England to neutral countries. 704
1582 Feb. 3 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Reports percentage of telegrams stopped during three days. 705
1107 Feb. 10 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Protests British refusal to permit telegrams in code to South American countries. 705
83 Jan. 21 [Rec’d Feb. 11] From the Consul at Göteborg. Reports increasing difficulties in transmitting commercial cables. 706
836 Feb. 3 [Rec’d Feb. 15] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Transmits memorandum from Grey defining British right to control telegrams and radiotelegrams. 707
Feb. 16 From the Counselor for the Department of State to the British Ambassador. Stresses need for arrangement whereby commercial cablegrams may pass between neutrals without interruption. 708
Feb. 19 From the British Ambassador. Report of investigation as to number of messages stopped and reasons therefor. 708
1694 Feb. 24 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). British censors were instructed to pass messages between North and South America. 709
Feb. 26 To the Consul at Göteborg (telegram). The same to the Minister in the Netherlands. Gives permission to transmit plain commercial messages of neutral character. 709
904 Feb. 15 [Rec’d Feb. 27] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Grey reports that out of 60 or 70 telegrams only 3 were stopped by British. 709
25 Mar. 4 [Rec’d Mar. 5] From the Minister in Sweden (telegram). Swedish Government protests interruption of cable service to America. 710
1752 Mar. 9 [Rec’d Mar. 10] From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Transmits note from Grey regarding private telegrams which have been sent through the Department, and comments thereon. 710
1280 Mar. 16 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Department has instructed its foreign officers to discontinue sending private messages through official channels. 711
1843 Mar. 26 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). British withhold permission to publish confidential memorandum of Feb. 1 on censorship of cables but permit publication of enclosed memorandum of Mar. 25. 712
1105 Mar. 24 [Rec’d Apr. 9] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Transmits reply of Grey to suggestion of Western Union Telegraph Co. regarding codes. 713
345 Mar. 24 [Rec’d Apr. 13] From the Ambassador in France. Foreign Office confirms its decision to permit use of Meyer’s code. 713
1223 Apr. 14 [Rec’d Apr. 27] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Futility of further protests against restriction of cables. 714
956 May 5 To the Ambassador in Great Britain. Instructions to continue to present to Foreign Office copies of stopped messages, with request for reasons for not forwarding. 715
1556 May 13 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions to ask reason for non-delivery of code telegrams concerning coffee shipments from South America. 715
May 27 To the Western Union Telegraph Co. The same to the Postal Telegraph and Cable Co. Requests that offices be instructed to accept messages routed via Tuckerton radio station. 716
2179 May 27 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Telegrams concerning coffee shipments from South America to the United States. 716
June 2 [Rec’d June 3] From the Western Union Telegraph Co. to the Counselor for the Department of State. Tuckerton wireless not satisfactory, but offices notified of its availability. 717
2223 June 3 [Rec’d June 4] From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Censor cannot trace telegrams of coffee shipments. Advises Americans not to send messages to South America via Great Britain. 717
164 June 8 To the Minister in the Netherlands (telegram). Repeated to the Ambassador in Great Britain. Inquires if Netherlands Oversea Trust will receive and forward commercial telegrams. 718
289 June 8 [Rec’d June 9] From the Minister in the Netherlands (telegram). Great Britain does not approve of transmission of messages through the Oversea Trust. 718
1715 June 15 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions to cooperate with Oversea Trust in trying to obtain adoption of plan for transmission of cablegrams. 719
2310 June 17 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). British Government has refused to consent to plan of the Netherlands Oversea Trust for transmission of cables. 719
1168 June 25 To the Ambassador in Great Britain. Instructions to continue to insist upon replies as to disposition of cablegrams. 719
2368 June 28 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). British will now permit telegrams from America to Netherlands Oversea Trust for delivery through their agency under certain circumstances. 720
1847 July 13 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions to discuss with British Government cooperation with the Victualing Commission of Norway in transmission of telegrams. 720
2447 July 13 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). British refuse to give explanations for suppression of telegrams. 721
1711 June 30 [Rec’d July 13] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Transmits note from Grey arranging for notification to senders of stopped telegrams. 721
2486 July 18 [Rec’d July 19] From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Censors instructed to avoid delaying telegrams between Norwegian Food Commission and American shippers. 722
1954 Aug. 6 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Further instructions concerning stopped telegrams. 722
1512 Aug. 28 To the Ambassador in Great Britain. Instructions to protest against refusal of British authorities at Shanghai and Hongkong to pass official telegrams of this Government when sent in code. 722
Aug. 24 [Rec’d Sept. 3] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. All telegrams since July 1 have been submitted to the Foreign Office. 723
Sept. 10 To the Ambassador in Great Britain. Instructions to submit copies of all stopped telegrams to Foreign Office. 723
2087 Sept. 1 [Rec’d Sept. 13] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Transmits new regulations of Foreign Office regarding stopped telegrams. 724
1098 Sept. 15 To the Ambassador in France (telegram). Requests that telegraph companies be permitted to notify senders regarding delivery or non-delivery of messages between the United States and Italy. 725
874 Sept. 8 [Rec’d Sept. 30] From the Consul General at Stockholm. Wireless messages can now be sent to America from Stockholm by way of Nauen to Sayville. 725
1025 Oct. 4 From the Ambassador in France (telegram). Foreign Office decides to notify senders of stopped telegrams when possible. 726
Sept. 28 [Rec’d Oct. 9] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Foreign Office has never agreed to give reasons why telegrams are stopped. 726
Oct. 21 To the Ambassador in Great Britain. French Government furnishes reasons for detaining messages; requests similar treatment from Great Britain. 726
2294 Oct. 8 [Rec’d Oct.26] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Instructions have been issued to all British censors to pass official telegrams sent in code between Shanghai and Hongkong. 727
Nov. 18 [Rec’d Nov.30] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Head censor has agreed to give information regarding stopped telegrams along line indicated by French Foreign Office. 727
Nov. 29 [Rec’d Dec. 17] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Transmits memorandum from Grey on suppressed telegrams. Further communication on the subject seems futile. 728
2614 Dec. 22 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Authorities at Hongkong refuse to permit transmission of messages in naval cipher. Instructions to protest to British Foreign Office. 730
3563 Jan. 13, 1916 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions have been issued by British to pass code telegrams for United States naval officers in Far East. 730
Jan. 19, 1916 To the Ambassador in Great Britain. Quotes former assurances of non-interference with business telegrams between neutral states; urges that specific cases be investigated. 730

Interference with the Mails by Belligerent Governments: Supervision of the Mails by American Authorities

ordinary mail and parcel post

[Page XCIII]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
Mar. 18 [Rec’d Mar.19] Memorandum of the Post Office Department. The Netherlands will permit transit of parcel-post mails via that country for Germany, Austria, and Hungary if exclusion of contraband is guaranteed by the United States. 731
Mar. 22 To the Postmaster General. President approves plan of forwarding merchandise by parcel post to countries at war. 732
July 30 [Rec’d July 31] From the Postmaster General. Parcel post service is in operation between the United States and Germany via Rotterdam. 732
Oct. 5 [Rec’d Oct. 9] From the British Ambassador. Tungsten ore is being sent from New York to Germany by parcel post in canvas bags. 733
Oct. 12 [Rec’d Oct. 15] From the British Ambassador. Calls attention to use of parcel post in sending contraband to Germany and Austria-Hungary. 733
2404 Nov. 4 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Have informed Spring Rice that sealed letter mail for neutral countries has been opened and retained in Great Britain. Notification of censorship should have been given under postal convention. 734
Nov. 8 To the British Ambassador. Postmaster General states tungsten ore has not been dispatched by mail to Germany. 734
Nov. 26 [Rec’d Nov.29] From the British Ambassador. British interpretation of regulations of postal convention regarding censorship. 735
2526 Dec. 1 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Instructions to investigate report that British no longer intend to respect inviolability of mails on open sea. 735
3334 Dec. 3 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). British indecision on treatment of mails on neutral vessels emanating from or addressed to the enemy. 736
Dec. 4 From the Postmaster General. Suspension of parcel-post service to Germany, Austria, and Hungary because of lack of transportation facilities. 736
Dec. 8 To the British Ambassador. New York postmaster reports that no contraband has been shipped by parcel post to Germany. Conditional contraband, however, has been sent to private parties. 737
3704 Dec. 13 From the Netherland Minister. Seizure of mail on Dutch steamers Frisia and Noordam. 737
79 Dec. 14 [Rec’d Dec. 15] From the Minister in Sweden (telegram). British seizure of mail from Danish steamer Hellig Olav destined for Sweden from America. 738
Dec. 16 To the Netherland Minister. Acknowledges receipt of note regarding seizure of mail on the Frisia and the Noordam. 738
Dec. 18 From the Swedish Minister. Swedish Government has protested seizure by Great Britain of sacks of parcel post on the Stockholm and Hellig Olav. Latter bore U. S. postal seal. 738
81 Dec. 19 From the Minister in Sweden (telegram). English removed Scandinavian parcel post from the Oscar II and are holding up all parcel-post traffic to America. 739
Dec. 24 From the Consul General at London (telegram). Customs at Kirkwall seized parcel mail from the Frederik VIII for Norway, Sweden, and Denmark. 739
3263 Dec. 24 [Rec’d Dec.25] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). American merchandise seized by British from the Danish steamer United States. 739
463 Dec. 28 [Rec’d Dec.29] From the Minister in the Netherlands (telegram). Mail from the United States to the Netherlands taken by British from the Nieuw Amsterdam and the Noorderdijk. 739
[Page XCIV]

diplomatic and consular mail

No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
306 Jan. 17 [Rec’d Jan. 18] From the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). Foreign Office states that restrictions on sealed official correspondence cannot be changed. 740
495 Jan. 26 [Rec’d Jan. 27] From the Ambassador in France (telegram). Foreign Office maintains inviolability of official correspondence. Desires United States to guarantee that no private correspondence will be transmitted. 740
1559 Feb. 10 [Rec’d Feb. 11] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). German regulations for transmission of correspondence of American diplomatic and consular officers. 741
861 Feb. 8 [Rec’d Feb. 24] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Transmits note from Foreign Office accepting proposed regulations exempting official correspondence from censorship. 741
219 Feb. 23 [Rec’d Mar. 18] From the Ambassador in Japan. Transmits Foreign Office note regarding regulations for transmission of official correspondence. 742
Apr. 23 To the Ambassador in France (telegram). The same, mutatis mutandis, to diplomatic officers in other belligerent countries. Rules established for Department’s diplomatic and consular correspondence. 743
June 12 To Diplomatic Officers in Belligerent Countries (telegram). Letters from diplomatic and consular officers to their families will not be censored. 743

The Removal by Belligerent Naval Authorities of Foreign Seamen from American Ships on the High Seas

[Page XCV][Page XCVI]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
357 Dec. 7, 1914 To the Ambassador in France (telegram). The same, mutatis mutandis, to the Ambassador in Great Britain. Instructions to ask for release of August Piepenbrink, who was seized on the Windber by the French. 744
1395 Jan. 4 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). British Government maintains that Piepenbrink is not an American citizen. Release refused. 744
Jan. 21 To the French Ambassador. Protests action of French in detaining the Metapan and requiring German passengers to sign pledge not to bear arms for Germany. 744
484 Jan. 22 From the Ambassador in France (telegram). Replies that the Governor of Kingston will decide upon the liberation of Piepenbrink. 745
Jan. 23 [Rec’d Jan. 25] From the French Ambassador. French Government within its rights under international law in inquiring into the character of passengers, to insure their non-belligerency. 746
600 Mar. 2 To the Ambassador in France (telegram). Instructions to request release of Piepenbrink. Quotes the Trent case. Encloses Department’s protest to Great Britain. 747
1166 Apr. 6 [Rec’d Apr. 16] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Transmits foreign Office note announcing decision to liberate Piepenbrink, reserving question of principle involved. 748
898 Apr. 21 To the Ambassador in Great Britain. Department glad to learn that Piepenbrink is to be released. 749
533 Apr. 21 [Rec’d May 3] From the Ambassador in France. Transmits Foreign Office note regarding orders for the release of Piepenbrink. 749
May 28 To the German Ambassador. U. S. jurisdiction over its merchant vessels has apparently been disregarded by Germans in seizing two members of the crew of the Muskogee. Suggests an official investigation. 750
July 3 From Goulder, White & Garry (telegram). Request for reply to letter regarding interference with seamen on the Niagara. The Lackawanna a similar case. 750
July 12 To Goulder, White & Garry (telegram). According to the law of nations when a merchant vessel enters a port for purposes of trade, it is subject to law of that place. 750
A 4905 Aug. 8 [Rec’d Aug. 11] From the German Ambassador. The men taken by Germans from the Muskogee were German reservists and had requested to be taken to nearest German port to report for military duty. 751
Aug. 28 To the German Ambassador. This Government cannot acquiesce in practice which might be regarded as lending assistance to deserting seamen from American vessels. 751
1248 Dec. 13 To the Ambassador in France (telegram). Protests action of French cruiser in removing certain persons from American vessels on high seas; requests release. 752
1171 Dec. 22 From the Ambassador in France (telegram). Foreign Office will investigate the affair of the Descartes. 752
1276 Dec. 24 To the Ambassador in France (telegram). Action of the Descartes in seizing purser of the Borinquen, an unwarranted invasion of sovereignty of American vessels. Instructions to urge release. 752
Dec. 24 To the French Ambassador. Protests action of the Descartes in seizing Germans and Austrians employed on American steamers. 753
1179 Dec. 27 From the Ambassador in France (telegram). Minister for Foreign Affairs under the impression that the men removed from vessels were implicated in German intrigues in West Indies. 754
1283 Dec. 28 To the Ambassador in France (telegram). Even though the men seized on American vessels were implicated in plots they could not rightfully be detained. 754
Jan. 3, 1916 From the French Ambassador. Orders have been given for the release of the Germans and Austrians arrested by the Descartes. 755

PART III: NEUTRAL DUTIES

Enlistment in Belligerent Forces: The Prevention of Recruiting within the United States

[Page XCVII]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
Mar. 8 From Mr. William Bayard Hale to the Counselor for the Department of State. Protests against activities of British recruiting officers in the United States. 759
Mar. 27 From the Assistant Attorney General to the Counselor for the Department of State. Transmits copy of his reply to a letter from W. B. Hale regarding activities of British recruiting officers in the United States. 760
May 19 To the Austro-Hungarian Ambassador. Activities of Pupin in issuing appeals to Montenegrins in the United States for military service; no evidence to warrant prosecution. 761
June 19 From the German Ambassador. Calls attention to British violation of American neutrality in San Francisco by recruiting and enlisting Americans. 762
1472 June 23 To the German Ambassador. The Attorney General will make investigation of charge of British recruiting of American citizens. 762
July 7 From the Montenegrin Delegate (telegram). Explains his mission to the United States and appeals for justice. 762
July 7 From the Attorney General. Indictments in Sacramento and Blair recruiting cases; recruiting funds traced to account of British Consul. 763
July 8 From the Russian Ambassador. Inquires as to charges against Montenegrin Delegate. 763
260 July 7 [Rec’d July 9] From the British Ambassador. Inquiry as to the legality of pecuniary aid to British citizens wishing to return home for military service. Encloses circular instructions issued by British Embassy. 764
July 19 To the Russian Ambassador. Montenegrins have been indicted for conspiracy in recruiting of American citizens for military service abroad. 765
880 July 23 To the British Ambassador. Reply to inquiry as to legality of pecuniary aid to British citizens wishing to return home for military service. 766
291 July 28 From the British Ambassador. Defense of action taken by Embassy regarding British subjects desiring to return home for military service. 767
Sept. 3 [Rec’d Sept. 7] From the Russian Ambassador. Apprehension of Matanovitch for violation of the U. S. neutrality laws. 769
Sept. 24 To the Russian Ambassador. Attorney General has ordered dismissal of indictments against Montenegrin delegates. 770
3303 Sept. 27 [Rec’d Sept.30] From the Austro-Hungarian Chargé. Furnishes further evidence of recruiting in United States for military service abroad. 770
400 Oct. 31 [Rec’d Nov. 1] From the British Ambassador. Inquires attitude of United States toward British subjects who wish to enlist in British army. Encloses forms for approval. 771
Nov. 1 Circular issued by the Department of State. Enlistment of American citizens in foreign armies. 772
202 Nov. 2 To the Austro-Hungarian Chargé. Reply to inquiry in regard to alleged recruiting of Austro-Hungarians by Montenegrins. 773
Nov. 10 To the British Ambassador. Department of Justice will send copy of charge in case of United States vs. Blair et al., and will arrange for conference. 773

The Entrance and Transit of Uniformed Members of Belligerent Forces

[Page XCVIII]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
733 Apr. 5 To the British Ambassador. Protests against appearance of armed Canadian soldiers in Detroit. 774
142 Apr. 8 [Rec’d Apr. 9] From the British Ambassador. Will bring to notice of Canadian Government complaint against appearance of armed Canadian soldiers in Detroit. 774
739 Apr. 12 To the British Ambassador. Internment of armed Canadian soldiers who enter American territory may have to be considered. 774
202 May 26 [Rec’d May 27] From the British Ambassador. Steps have been taken by Canadian Government to prevent Canadian soldiers crossing into U. S. territory. 775
Dec. 20 [Rec’d Dec. 21] From the British Ambassador. Requests permission for wounded soldiers returning from Europe to pass through Maine on way to Canada. 775
Dec. 23 To the British Ambassador. Passage of Canadian soldiers over U. S. territory cannot be permitted. 776

The Sale of Contraband Goods: Hydro-Aeroplanes, Submarine Parts, Motorboats

[Page XCIX][Page C][Page CI][Page CII]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
A 395 Jan. 19 [Rec’d Jan. 20] From the German Ambassador. Calls attention to delivery of hydroaeroplanes to belligerents by U. S. firms. 776
Jan. 21 From the British Ambassador. Statements justifying tendency of British public to ascribe to American Government an attitude of partiality in the war and of hostility to Great Britain. 777
1209 Jan. 29 To the German Ambassador. Hydro-aeroplanes are not considered by the United States as war vessels. German Government places them on conditional contraband list. 780
A 615 Jan. 27 [Rec’d Jan. 29] From the German Ambassador. Bethlehem Steel Works are secretly sending submarine parts to Canada. 781
Feb. 9 [Rec’d Feb. 10] From the British Ambassador. Furnishes precedents for neutrals supplying war materials to belligerents. 781
1241 Feb. 17 To the German Ambassador. Denies that submarine parts are being built by Bethlehem Steel Works for Canada. 782
B 2887 Feb. 19 [Rec’d Feb. 20] From the German Ambassador. It is reported that submarines are being built for Great Britain in San Francisco, Boston, and Seattle. 782
Undated [Rec’d Feb. 20] From the Lake Torpedo Boat Co. (telegram). Claims that shipments of submarine parts are lawful under Revised Statutes, Sec, 5283. 783
Feb. 26 To the Lake Torpedo Boat Co. (telegram). It is the duty of Americans to prevent submarines being shipped from this country, even in parts. 783
A 2083 Mar. 23 [Rec’d Mar. 24] From the German Ambassador. Calls attention to steamers leaving New York with munitions and guns for England. 784
Apr. 3 From the Chamber of German-American Commerce. Quotes Ambassador White’s statement that he had requested the German authorities to search a Spanish ship during the Spanish-American War. Requests reciprocity in treatment of Germany. 784
Apr. 8 To the Secretary of the Chamber of German-American Commerce. Explanation of Ambassador White’s request that the German authorities search a Spanish ship during the Spanish-American War. 785
2060 Apr. 16 [Rec’d Apr. 17] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Official report that the French have unlimited quantities of American ammunition at their disposal. 786
A 3090 May 3 [Rec’d May 4] From the German Ambassador. Inquires as to truth of statement that English officers are supervising the manufacture of arms and ammunition ordered by Great Britain from U. S. factories. 786
May 7 [Rec’d May 10] From the British Ambassador. Arms and ammunition were imported by England from Germany during the Boer War. 786
May 15 To the German Ambassador. Reply to note concerning English supervision over manufacture of arms in U. S. factories. 787
2511 June 29 [Rec’d June 30] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Calls attention to advertisement in American Machinist of high-explosive shells which will cause agonizing death, which is being reprinted in Germany. 787
June 30 Prom the Postmaster General. Advertisements regarding high-explosive shells will not be accepted as second-class matter if not in harmony with the President’s attitude. 788
759 July 5 [Rec’d July 6] From the Ambassador in Austria-Hungary (telegram). Cites precedents for the furnishing of arms by neutral countries to belligerents. 788
1917 July 7 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Advertisement of machine to make poisonous shells will not appear again. Encloses note from French Embassy asserting that France has bought no shells from America since the war began. 789
July 8 To the Postmaster General. Hopes that it will be proper to suggest to publishers that they refuse unneutral advertisements in the future. 790
608 July 2 [Rec’d July 20] From the Ambassador in Austria-Hungary. Transmits note of Burian protesting against shipment of American arms and ammunition to the Allies. Has reminded him that Americans are more concerned in permanent trade than in the temporary manufacture of arms. 790
A 4511 July 17 [Rec’d July 20] From the German Ambassador. Requests investigation of report that many boats equipped for destruction of submarines are being constructed in the United States for Great Britain. 793
846 Aug. 12 To the Ambassador in Austria-Hungary (telegram). Reply to note regarding exportation of arms and ammunition from the United States to the countries at war with Austria-Hungary and Germany. 794
A 5149 Aug. 18 [Rec’d Aug. 21] From the German Ambassador. It is reported that speed boats are being built in large numbers for the destruction of submarines. 799
1564 Aug. 27 To the German Ambassador. Use to which speed boats are to be put is not known. 799
Aug. 27 From the President’s Secretary. Transmits a letter from the managing editor of the Milwaukee Journal regarding an embargo on arms. 800
Aug. 30 To the Russian Ambassador (telegram). Inquires if motor-boats ready for shipment to Russia are to be used in the war. 801
Aug. 30 To Diplomatic Officers in European Neutral Countries (telegram). Instructions to obtain information regarding embargoes on arms and ammunition. 801
Aug. 31 From the Russian Ambassador (telegram). Motor-boats are for use of Russian Government in patrolling lakes and closed seas. 801
Sept. 1 To the Russian Ambassador (telegram). Collector of customs has been instructed to allow exportation of motor-boats. 802
170 Sept. 1 From the Minister in Denmark (telegram). Arms and ammunition embargoed and reasons therefor. 802
385 Sept. 1 From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Italy has an embargo on arms and ammunition because they are needed at home. 802
26 Sept. 2 From the Minister in Portugal (telegram). Portugal has not embargoed arms and ammunition. 802
56 Sept. 2 From the Chargé in Sweden (telegram). Sweden has embargoed arms and ammunition; reasons therefor. 802
363 Sept. 4 From the Minister in the Netherlands (telegram). Report on manufacture of arms and ammunition, and on embargo and reasons therefor. 803
127 Sept. 4 [Rec’d Sept. 5] From the Ambassador in Spain (telegram). No Spanish embargo on arms and ammunition but policy is to prevent exportation in order to maintain neutrality and conserve supplies. 803
29 Sept. 7 From the Minister in Norway (telegram). An embargo has been placed on arms and ammunition in order to conserve them for home use. 803
Sept. 16 To the President’s Secreretary. Report on neutral countries which have placed an embargo on arms and ammunition, with their reasons. 804
A 5629 Sept. 16 [Rec’d Sept.18] From the German Ambassador. Information concerning warlike nature of speed boats built by Greenport Basin and Construction Co. 805
Sept. 27 To the Attorney General. Transmits a letter from the Austro-Hungarian Consul at Philadelphia to the Editor of the “A Hét” Publishing Co., requesting publication of a notice to Austro-Hungarians working in U. S. munitions factories. 806
1487 Sept. 9 [Rec’d Oct. 2] From the Ambassador in Germany. Transmits Foreign Office note submitting list of cases as evidence of use of American ammunition by French. 807
Oct. 2 From the German Ambassador (telegram). Six submarine destroyers for British loaded aboard the Bohemian sailing from Boston. Requests investigation. 808
Oct. 7 From the Attorney General. Facts relative to Austro-Hungarian subjects do not constitute a violation of Federal criminal laws. 808
942 Oct. 15 [Rec’d Oct. 16] From the Ambassador in Austria-Hungary (telegram). Press reports indicate that submarines constructed in the United States have been sent to England. Inquires regarding line to be taken in meeting Austro-Hungarian criticism. 809
Oct. 19 To the Electric Boat Co. The same to the Bethlehem Steel Corporation. Inquiry regarding shipment to England of submarines delivered to Vickers-Maxim, Montreal. 809
Sept. 30 [Rec’d Oct. 25] From the Ambassador in Austria-Hungary. Transmits further statement from Burian regarding traffic in arms and ammunition between the United States and the Allies, with comments. 809
Oct. 27 From the President of the Electric Boat Co. Reply to inquiry about shipment to England of submarines delivered to Vickers-Maxim, Montreal. 813
1641 Nov. 1 To the German Ambassador. The motor-boats shipped on the Bohemian were not armed. 814
967 Nov. 3 To the Ambassador in Austria-Hungary (telegram). There is no evidence that submarines have been built in the United States for delivery during present war. 814
A 7690 Nov. 28 [Rec’d Nov. 29] From the German Ambassador. Cites cases of boats built in the United States for use of the Allies, as breaches of neutrality. 814
Jan. 7, 1916 To the German Ambassador. After investigation of specific cases cited, the charge of violation of neutrality is denied. 818

Loans to Belligerent Governments

No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
Mar. 31 Notice issued to the press by the Department of State. Loans to belligerents disapproved by this Government, but no action has been taken. 820

Treatment of Belligerent Warships, Their Crews and Tenders, in American Ports—Internment of the “Farn” (“KD–3”), the “Prinz Eitel Friedrich,” and the Kronprinz Wilhelm

[Page CIII][Page CIV][Page CV]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
18 Jan. 13 [Rec’d Jan. 15] From the British Ambassador. Requests detention of the Farn, former British vessel, captured by Germans and named the KD–3. 821
26 Jan. 17 [Rec’d Jan. 18] From the British Ambassador. Requests protection of British ship Farn taken into port at San Juan. 821
Jan. 25 Memorandum of the Counselor for the Department of State. Explained orally to the German Ambassador the decision of this Government as to character of the Farn and treatment she would receive. 821
Jan. 29 To the British Ambassador. The KD–3 was interned and British officers and Chinese crew released. 822
82 Feb. 26 From the British Ambassador. Presents argument for release of the Farn. 822
Mar. 13 To the British Ambassador. Decision holds to intern the Farn as a fleet auxiliary until the end of the war. Reasons given. 823
Mar. 13 Memorandum of the Counselor for the Department of State. Conversation with the German Ambassador on the subject of internment of the Prinz Eitel Friedrich. 824
A 1810 Mar. 13 From the German Ambassador. Requests time for repairs on the Prinz Eitel Friedrich. 825
Mar. 15 From the Assistant Secretary of the Treasury to the Counselor for the Department of State. Transmits report of Collector of Customs at Newport News regarding the Prinz Eitel Friedrich, with copy of his letter to the commander. 825
Mar. 18 To the German Ambassador. Announces the length of time that the Prinz Eitel Friedrich will be permitted to remain in U. S. waters for repairs. 827
Mar. 22 From the British Embassy. States that the Prinz Eitel Friedrich was not in need of repairs. Inquires what steps will be taken in the matter. 828
124 Mar. 26 [Rec’d Mar. 27] From the British Ambassador. British Government inquires as to whom the United States will hand over the Farn at the end of the war. 828
Mar. 29 To the British Embassy. Instruction has been given that the Prinz Eitel may not leave within 24 hours after departure of an enemy merchant ship. 829
Mar. 29 From the Assistant Secretary of the Treasury to the Counselor for the Department of State. Transmits inquiry from the commander of the Prinz Eitel regarding time for sailing. 829
Mar. 30 To the British Embassy. Repairs on the Prinz Eitel fall within the principles laid down by Hague Convention XIII. 830
Apr. 1 To the British Ambassador. The right to claim the Farn is a question to be decided by the British and German Governments. 831
Apr. 2 To the Assistant Secretary of the Treasury (telegram). Recommends that commander of the Prinz Eitel be informed of the departure of enemy merchant vessels, as requested. 831
Apr. 5 [Rec’d Apr. 6] From the Collector of Customs, Los Angeles, to the Secretary of the Treasury (telegram). Requests instructions regarding the, British collier Lena, which desires to make repairs and take on excess supplies. 832
Apr. 6 To the Secretary of the Treasury (telegram). Instructions regarding the stay of the Lena in San Diego port. 832
Apr. 9 From the Secretary of the Navy. Forwards telegram from officer of the Wyoming announcing internment of the Prinz Eitel Friedrich. 832
A 2578 Apr. 8 [Rec’d Apr. 10] From the German Ambassador. Expresses gratitude for protection afforded the Prinz Eitel Friedrich. 833
A 2681 Apr. 12 [Rec’d Apr. 13] From the German Ambassador. Requests permission for the Kronprinz Wilhelm to land certain persons and procure repairs and supplies at Newport News. 833
Apr. 21 To the German Ambassador. Announces time limit for repairs on the Kronprinz Wilhelm , after which, if vessel does not leave, she will be interned. 833
Apr. 20 [Rec’d Apr. 21] From the British Embassy. Asserts that the Kronprinz Wilhelm was apparently damaged by ramming the Wilfred M. 834
Apr. 26 From the Assistant Secretary of the Treasury to the Counselor for the Department of State. Forwards letter from commander of the Kronprinz Wilhelm saying he will intern. 834
A 3188 May 8 [Rec’d May 11] From the German Ambassador. Expresses thanks for treatment of the Kronprinz Wilhelm . 835
194 May 17 [Rec’d May 18] From the Britash Ambassador. British reserve their rights in regard to release of the Farn. 835
281 July 21 [Rec’d July 23] From the British Ambassador. Arrest of officers of the Prinz Eitel Friedrich who had escaped from the United States. Suggests precautions to prevent further escapes. 836
921 Aug. 19 To the British Ambassador. Reports that Halbrock had not been interned and that Max Kjier was discharged in South American port on account of sickness. 836
Oct. 6 [Rec’d Oct. 8] From the Secretary of the Navy. Refusal to permit the officers of the Kronprinz Wilhelm to own pleasure yacht. 837
Oct. 26 [Rec’d Oct. 28] From the British Ambassador. Asks for personal description of the officers of the Kronprinz Wilhelm who escaped on the Eclipse, in order to assist in their capture. 838
Nov. 1 To the British Ambassador. Refuses description of escaped officers. 838
A 7222 Nov. 11 [Rec’d Nov. 16] From the German Ambassador. Requests permission to put the Kronprinz Wilhelm and the Prinz Eitel Friedrich in repair for passenger accommodation. 838
1661 Nov. 16 To the German Ambassador. Calls attention to escape of officers and men who were interned in American ports. 839
A 7545 Nov. 22 [Rec’d Nov.23] From the German Ambassador. Requests that officers and men on interned vessels be spared the humiliation of having their pictures taken as a means of preventing their escape. 841
Nov. 23 To the German Ambassador. No pictures will be taken of interned German officers. Other means will be employed to prevent their escape. 841
A 7586 Nov. 24 [Rec’d Nov.26] From the German Ambassador. Communicates all facts available concerning escape of interned German officers and men. 842
1706 Dec. 22 To the German Ambassador. Refuses permission for full repair to interned vessels and restoration for passenger accommodation. 843
2708 Dec. 16 [Rec’d Dec.29] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Transmits note from the Consul at Edinburg containing letter from Lieutenant Koch, who escaped from internment at Norfolk, asking permission to return to his vessel in the United States. 843
3046 Jan. 7, 1916 To the Ambassador in Great Britain. No representations will be made for return to the United States of Lieutenant Koch. 844

Treatment of Armed Merchant Ships

No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
Feb. 27 From the Cunard Steamship Co. Inquires as to regulations regarding the arming of vessels for defense against submarines. 844
Mar. 3 To the Cunard Steamship Co. (telegram). No objection to steamships entering American port, if armed for defense only. 845
May 22 From the Counselor for the Department of State to the British Ambassador. Requests removal of guns from merchant ship Asian in New Orleans port. 846
July 28 [Rec’d July 29] From the Netherland Minister. Inquires attitude of the United States toward armed merchant vessels. Extract from New York Times, July 28. 846
July 30 To the Netherland Minister. Reply regarding status of armed merchant vessels. 847
Aug. 25 To the British Ambassador. Requests removal of guns from the Waimana before leaving port of Norfolk. 848
Sept. 10 From the British Ambassador. British reluctant to compromise right of protecting merchantmen by armament. Proper measures will be taken to insure compliance with regulations. 848
Sept. 11 To the British Ambassador. British Government must give assurance that armament of the Waimana will be used only for defensive purposes; otherwise guns must be landed. 849
Sept. 22 [Rec’d Sept.28] From the Collector of Customs, Norfolk, to the Secretary of the Treasury. Reports that Waimana cleared after coaling and landing a gun; tonnage tax collected under protest. 850
[Page CVI]

Treatment of Merchant Ships Supplying Belligerent Warships—The Detention of the “Odenwald”—The “Pisa” Case

[Page CVII]
NO. Date From and to whom Subject Page
Mar. 4 Joint Resolution by the Senate and House of Representatives. Customs regulations to empower the President to better enforce and maintain the neutrality of the United States. 851
98 Mar. 9 [Rec’d Mar.10] From the British Ambassador. U. S. Government responsible for supplying German warships from U. S. territory. Protests action of German vessels in American ports. 852
Mar. 11 [Rec’d Mar.12] From the German Ambassador. Discusses neutrality resolution and inquires as to its interpretation regarding use of territorial waters as base of operations for armed forces of belligerents. 853
Mar. 13 To the British Ambassador. Reexamination of German vessels in U. S. ports has been ordered. 855
Mar. 18 [Rec’d Mar.20] From the Secretary of the Treasury. The Odenwald has applied for clearance to Hamburg, carrying bunker coal. Have inquired whether any suspicious circumstances. 856
Mar. 19 From the Assistant Secretary of the Treasury to the Counselor for the Department of State. Have instructed collector of customs at San Juan to search the Odenwald for arms and make report. 856
Mar. 20 From the Secretary of the Treasury. Quotes cablegrams from collector of customs, San Juan, giving assurance regarding the Odenwald. 856
115 Mar. 20 From the British Ambassador. Has been informed that the Odenwald will leave port for belligerent purposes. 857
Mar. 21 [Rec’d Mar. 22] From the Commanding Officer in Porto Rico to the Adjutant General at New York (telegram). The Odenwald attempted to leave without clearance papers. Warning shot brought her back. 857
Mar. 27 To the British Ambassador. After reexamination of German vessels, this Government is satisfied regarding its duties as a neutral. 858
A 2140 Mar. 26 [Rec’d Mar.27] From the German Embassy. The Pisa will sail for Hamburg with coal and provisions and will try to communicate with a German cruiser at sea. Argument to prove this not contrary to U. S. regulations. 858
135 Mar. 31 [Rec’d Apr. 2] From the British Ambassador. States that certain German steamships intend to leave U. S. ports to supply German warships and conduct belligerent operations. 859
A 2400 Apr. 1 [Rec’d Apr. 2] From the German Ambassador. Protests action of harbor authorities in firing on the Odenwald. Explanation desired as to why clearance papers were denied. 860
A 2433 Apr. 2 [Rec’d Apr. 3] From the German Ambassador to the Counselor for the Department of State. Official explanation desired as to why clearance papers were denied the Pisa. 861
Apr. 10 To the German Ambassador. Presents argument sustaining the U. S. Government in withholding permission for the Pisa to leave port. 861
May 3 To the German Ambassador. Breach of navigation laws by the Odenwald a justification of acts of harbor officials. 864
A 7066 Nov. 8 From the German Ambassador. Requests postponement of trial of cases involving Hamburg-American Line pending discussion of law with respect to shipments from neutral territory of coal for belligerent vessels. 867
Nov. 8 To the German Ambassador. Refuses to interfere with procedure of Department of Justice in cases of the Hamburg-American Line. 868
A 7295 Nov. 13 From the German Ambassador. Requests that questions involving military secrets of German Government be avoided in trial of the Pisa. 869
Nov. 16 To the German Ambassador. Neutral territory as a base for naval operations on the high seas and judicial investigation involving military or political secrets of a belligerent government. 869
A 7572 Nov. 22 From the German Ambassador. Representations regarding prosecutions against the Hamburg-American Line and the violation of neutrality laws. 870

Actions of Belligerent Warships Outside and Within Territorial Waters—Hovering

[Page CVIII]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
Mar. 24 From the British Ambassador. Renewed orders to officers on duty in the North Atlantic regarding observance of U. S. neutrality laws. 872
Mar. 27 To the British Ambassador. Protests against belligerent ships receiving supplies in vicinity of California. Cites case of the Bellerophon. 872
Mar. 29 From the British Ambassador. Case of the Bellerophon will be brought to attention of the British Government. 873
Apr. 5 From the British Ambassador to the Counselor for the Department of State. Forwards reasons why it would be impracticable for British warships to provision themselves from U. S. territory. 873
Apr. 16 To the British Ambassador. Calls attention to British cruiser Suffolk communicating with shore off Cape Henry. 874
Apr. 17 [Rec’d Apr. 19] From the British Ambassador. Cites cases similar to that of the Suffolk and asks what action was taken by the Government. 874
Apr. 19 [Rec’d Apr.21] From the British Ambassador. Categorical denial that Suffolk has communicated with the shore. 875
Apr. 28 [Rec’d Apr.29] From the British Ambassador. Explains operations in North Pacific of the British cruiser Rainbow. 875
May 10 From the Acting Secretary of the Navy. Transmits copies of correspondence referring to action of the Iroquois (1861) in receiving information of the movements of the Sumter. 876
May 15 To the Secretary of the Navy. Inquires whether the Navy Department approved of action of the Iroquois (1861) in arranging for shore signals regarding movements of the Sumter. 876
May 24 From the Secretary of the Navy. Record of proceedings in case of the Iroquois (1861) is not on file in Navy Department. 877
Nov. 26 To the British Ambassador. Protests against British warship chasing Danish ship Vinland within American waters. 877
Nov. 27 From the British Ambassador. Inquiry instituted regarding the Vinland. 878
Dec. 1 [Rec’d Dec. 2] From the British Ambassador. Facts in case of the Vinland are not as reported. 878
429 Dec. 11 [Rec’d Dec.14] From the British Ambassador. Report on the Vinland_ _ _ _ _ _ _ 879
1016 Dec. 16 To the British Ambassador. Protests against hovering of British warships about American coasts and ports. 879
1026 Dec. 22 To the British Ambassador. Quotes Navy report of a British cruiser off Galveston Harbor outside of the three-mile limit. 880
Dec. 21 [Rec’d Dec.23] From the British Ambassador. Acknowledges receipt of note of protest against hovering of warships near American waters. 881
Dec. 29 To the French Ambassador. Calls attention to hovering of French cruiser Descartes off coast of San Juan. 881
Dec. 30 [Rec’d Jan. 3, 1916] From the French Ambassador. Investigation will be made concerning the Descartes. 882
[Page CIX]

Control Over Wireless Telegraphy—Establishment of a Censorship at the Guam Cable Station

[Page CX]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
A 163 Jan. 12 [Rec’d Jan. 13] From the German Ambassador. Inquires whether wireless stations in the United States are forbidden to receive or forward code messages from and to the nations at war. 882
1202 Jan. 26 To the German Ambassador. Reply to inquiry regarding transmission of radio messages in code to and from belligerents. 883
125 Mar. 26 [Rec’d Mar. 29] From the British Ambassador. Governor of British Honduras asks permission to send commercial messages by radio through New Orleans in code. 883
A 2687 Apr. 12 From the Counselor of the German Embassy to the Counselor for the Department of State Requests information regarding sending of code messages through Tuckerton radio station. 884
Apr. 17 From the Counselor for the Department of State to the Counselor of the German Embassy. Wireless messages in code may be sent through Tuckerton on condition that key to code and plain messages are sent to Department. 884
A 2813 Apr. 20 From the German Embassy. Sends key to cipher to be used in messages through Tuckerton and Sayville. 884
Apr. 21 From the Counselor for the Department of State to the German Ambassador. Asks if Embassy objects to sending messages in English between Washington and Tuckerton, cipher to be used between Tuckerton and Berlin. 885
Apr. 21 To the Secretary of the Navy. German Embassy to send official messages to the Navy Department for transmittal via Tuckerton: code also to be sent. 885
749 Apr. 21 To the British Ambassador. Refuses permission to send commercial messages from British Honduras through New Orleans in code. 886
Apr. 27 From the Secretary of the Navy. Program of procedure to be used in handling code messages of German Embassy. 886
June 9 [Rec’d June 12] Memorandum by the British Embassy. Radio station at Sayville is in hands of Germans. Requests the United States to prevent unneutral use. 887
Aug. 10 From the Acting Secretary of of the Navy. Transmits cablegram from commandant of naval station, Guam, relative to establishment of censorship over cables. 888
Aug. 27 From the Acting Secretary of the Navy. Forwards telegrams sent and received relative to censorship of the cable at Guam. 888
Aug. 30 From the Acting Secretary of the Navy. Forwards from the commandant of naval station at Guam copy of rules governing receipt and transmission of local cable messages. 889

The Prevention of Activities in the United States for the Destruction of Belligerent Merchant Ships and Property

No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
Feb. 3 From the British Ambassador. Requests extradition of Vernil Horne accused of attempting to destroy bridge in New Brunswick: suggests that international bridges be guarded by the United States. 890
Feb. 27 To the British Ambassador. Local authorities have sole jurisdiction and responsibility in respect of bridges. Federal authorities act only when called upon. 890
211 June 5 [Rec’d June 7] From the British Ambassador. Calls attention to conspiracies in America for destruction of British ships and railways. 891
924 Aug. 21 To the British Ambassador. Special guard has been provided in New York Harbor to prevent the placing of explosives on British vessels. 892
Oct. 3 [Rec’d Oct. 5] From the French Ambassador. Offers to cooperate with the U. S. authorities in suppressing conspiracies. 893
364 Oct. 7 [Rec’d Oct. 9] From the British Ambassador. Calls attention to German responsibility for incendiary fires discovered on British steamers leaving New York. 894
1609 Oct. 27 To the French Ambassador. Agents of Federal Government are cooperating with New York police to prevent the placing of incendiary bombs on vessels leaving New York. 894
975 Nov. 1 To the British Ambassador. The same, except first and fourth paragraphs, to the French Ambassador. Official investigation of attempts to destroy the British steamship Asuncion de Larrinaga. 896
[Page CXI]

PART IV: OTHER PROBLEMS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

New Regulations Regarding the Issuance and Control of Passports

[Page CXII]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
Dec. 30, 1914 [Rec’d Jan. 2] From the Minister in Belgium (telegram) Requests that passports not be issued for travel into Belgium. 899
Jan. 7 To the Ambassadors and Ministers in France, Germany, Great Britain, Italy, the Netherlands, and Denmark (telegram). Instructions not to issue emergency passports for travel in Belgium except under specified conditions. 899
383 Feb. 8 To American Diplomatic and Consular Officers (including Consular Agents). Consular regulations: Termination, extension, and amendment of passports, and advice for Americans traveling abroad. 900
1970 Apr. 1 [Rec’d Apr. 2] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Inquiries if a person, previously denied passport, is entitled to return to the United States to resume citizenship. 906
1492 Apr. 9 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Persons who have long resided abroad, trying to escape from war conditions should not have passports. 906
June 1 Departmental order. Rules governing the granting and issuing of passports to those who have declared their intention to become citizens of the United States. 906
745 May 18 [Rec’d June 1] From the Ambassador in France. Passports denied to applicants who intend to enlist in belligerent armies. 908
409 June 11 To the Ambassador in France. Approves course in hot issuing passports to American citizens intending to enlist in belligerent armies. 909
138 July 22 To the Minister in Switzerland (telegram). Instructions regarding the passport of Trumbull, of the Rockefeller Foundation. 910
190 Sept. 2 To the Minister in the Netherlands (telegram). The same to the Ambassador in Germany. Instructions to take up passport of James Archibald and give him emergency passport for immediate return to the United States. 910
364 Sept. 6 From the Minisister in the Netherlands (telegram). Archibald expects to sail for New York Sept. 8. 910
3047 Oct. 19 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Proposes that no emergency passports be issued after Dec. 1 except in extraordinary emergency. 911
2285 Dec. 15 Executive order_ Foreigners leaving the United States should be provided with passports of their government. 911
2286–A Dec. 17 Executive order_ Rules governing the granting and issuing of passports in the United States. 912
Dec. 23 To Diplomatic Representatives of Foreign Governments. Regulations regarding passports 913

Diplomatic Representation in Bulgaria

No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
161 Oct. 8 To the Minister in Roumania, Servia, and Bulgaria (telegram). Arranging for diplomatic representation in Bulgaria if relations are severed between that country and the Entente. 914
166 Oct. 18 To the Minister in Roumania, Servia, and Bulgaria (telegram). Awaiting approval of Bulgarian Government to send Einstein to Sofia as Chargé on special mission. He will assume charge of British interests. 915
156 Oct. 21 [Rec’d Oct. 22] From the Minister in Roumania, Servia, and Bulgaria (telegram). Bulgarian Government will receive Einstein. 915
176 Oct. 27 To the Minister in Roumania, Servia, and Bulgaria (telegram). Einstein appointed special agent to assist in caring for British interests in Bulgaria and not Chargé on special mission. 915
Undated [Rec’d Nov. 1] From the Special Agent in Bulgaria (telegram). Have presented letters as Chargé _ _ 915
191 Nov. 12 To the Minister in Roumania, Servia, and Bulgaria (telegram). Einstein may Continue to enjoy individual rank of Chargé without holding office as such. 916

Status of American Consular Officers in Belligerent Territory Occupied by Enemy Troops

[Page CXIII]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
308 Dec. 4, 1914 [Rec’d Dec. 26] From the Ambassador in Germany. Transmits official notice of expiration of exequaturs of consuls in countries occupied by German Army. 916
3465 Dec. 28, 1914 From the Belgian Minister. German Government has canceled exequaturs; will create three consular posts. Belgium protests. 917
1044 Jan. 21 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Right of German Government to suspend consular officers in conquered territory recognized. 917
425 Jan. 11 [Rec’d Jan. 25] From the Ambassador in Germany. Transmits Foreign Office note regarding Belgian protest against suspension of neutral consuls in Belgium. 918
Jan. 25 To the Belgian Minister. Acknowledges note referring to German announcement of intention to cancel exequaturs of foreign consuls. 919
898 Feb. 13 [Rec’d Feb. 15] From the Belgian Minister. Transmits copy of second note of protest to Germany against cancellation of exequaturs of foreign consuls in Belgium. 919
664 Mar. 12 [Rec’d Mar. 29] From the Ambassador in Germany. Transmits Foreign Office note commending the U. S. consular officers at Antwerp and Liége and suggesting that the post at Brussels be filled. 920
976 Nov. 13 [Rec’d Nov. 14] From the Ambassador in Austria-Hungary (telegram). Requests information regarding position of Consul Young, who desires to return to Belgrade. 921
991 Nov. 17 To the Ambassador in Austria-Hungary (telegram). Young should remain in Belgrade_ _ 921
989 Nov. 20 [Rec’d Nov.21] From the Ambassador in Austria-Hungary (telegram). Awaits instruction regarding status of Consul Young now within Austro-Hungarian lines. 921
997 Nov. 23 To the Ambassador in Austria-Hungary (telegram). Young to remain at Belgrade under Austro-Hungarian control, though detached from Budapest jurisdiction. 922
1017 Dec. 7 [Rec’d Dec. 8] From the Ambassador in Austria-Hungary (telegram). Austro-Hungarian Government consents to Young’s return to Belgrade under certain conditions. Suggestion that he be detailed to assist at Vienna. 922
1052 Dec. 23 To the Ambassador in Austria-Hungary (telegram). Young is to seal archives in Belgrade and proceed to Vienna, where he has been assigned for temporary duty in the Consulate General. 923
[Page CXIV]

Request for the Recall of Diplomatic and Consular Officers of Belligerent Governments: Von Loehneysen, German Consul at Seattle; Dumba, Austro-Hungarian Ambassador; Von Papen and Boy-Ed, German Attachés

[Page CXV][Page CXVI]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
1084 Oct. 9, 1914 To the German Ambassador. Requests recall of the German Consul at Seattle. Encloses letter from the Consul to Private Krüger commanding him to desert from U. S. Army for military duty in Germany. 923
A 7411 Oct. 18, 1914 [Rec’d Oct. 19] From the German Ambassador. Explanation of conduct of the Consul at Seattle and request that proposal to recall him be dismissed. 924
1183 Jan. 14 To the German Ambassador. Conduct of the German Consul at Seattle is a serious offense against laws of the United States. Repeats request for his recall. 926
B 1448 Feb. 2 [Rec’d Feb. 4] From the German Ambassador. Announces that the Consul at Seattle has been recalled. 927
Aug. 18 From the German Ambassador. Statement regarding criticisms of conduct of German representatives in the United States. 927
Aug. 19 To the German Ambassador. This Government desires to remove all causes of criticism of the German representatives. 931
2722 Aug. 31 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Archibald, American war correspondent arrested by British on charge of performing unneutral service, freed upon confiscation of letters. 932
2732 Sept. 1 [Rec’d Sept. 2] From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Transmits copy of a despatch from Dumba to Burian, taken from Archibald, plotting strikes in American steel and munition factories. 932
Sept. 8 From the Austro-Hungarian Ambassador. Requests copy of his letter to Burian. 933
Sept. 8 To the Austro-Hungarian Ambassador. Dumba’s letter was sent in secret cipher; paraphrase only can be furnished. 933
887 Sept. 8 To the Ambassador in Austria-Hungary (telegram). The President requests the recall of Dumba, who is charged with conspiracy. 933
Sept. 13 From the German Ambassador. Request from Dumba, for transmission to his Government, for recall on leave of absence for personal report. 934
897 Sept. 14 [Rec’d Sept. 16] From the Ambassador in Austria-Hungary (telegram). Requests safe-conduct for Dumba to report to his Government. 934
899 Sept. 17 To the Ambassador in Austria-Hungary (telegram). When Dumba is definitely recalled, safe-conduct will be requested of the British and French. 935
908 Sept. 19 [Rec’d Sept.20] From the Ambassador in Austria-Hungary (telegram). Burian reluctant to condemn Dumba without a hearing, but does not question genuineness of the letter. 935
2112 Sept. 3 [Rec’d Sept.21] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Transmits documents taken by British authorities from Archibald exposing the secret activities of Austro-Hungarian and German officials in the United States. 936
908 Sept. 22 To the Ambassador in Austria-Hungary (telegram). Repeats request for recall of Dumba as persona non grata. 941
910 Sept. 22 To the Ambassador in Austria-Hungary (telegram). Dumba refused safe-conduct for leave of absence. Department awaiting notice of his recall. 941
913 Sept. 24 [Rec’d Sept.25] From the Ambassador in Austria-Hungary (telegram). Virtual recall of Dumba. 942
2866 Sept. 25 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Kirk sent from Berlin with package from Department pouch containing vouchers and expense account for German propaganda in the United States and other countries. Awaiting instructions. 942
917 Sept. 28 To the Ambassador in Austria-Hungary (telegram). Arrangements made for safe return of Dumba; correspondence on subject. 943
Oct. 1 To the Austro-Hungarian Embassy. British and French will permit safe passage of Dumba and party. 943
920 Sept. 30 [Rec’d Oct. 2] From the Ambassador in Austria-Hungary (telegram). Transmits reply to note requesting recall of Dumba, in which wish is expressed for continued friendly relations between the two countries. 944
807 Sept. 30 [Rec’d Oct. 25] From the Ambassador in Austria-Hungary. Interview with Burian arranging recall of Dumba. 944
932 Nov. 10 [Rec’d Nov.29] From the Ambassador in Austria-Hungary. Transmits Burian’s formal recall of Dumba. 947
A 7808 Dec. 1 From the German Ambassador. Requests transmission of radiogram to Berlin regarding Lansing’s request for recall of Boy-Ed and Von Papen. 947
1686 Dec. 4 To the German Ambassador. Formal statement that Boy-Ed and Von Papen are unacceptable to this Government. 948
Dec. 4 From the German Ambassador. Boy-Ed is desirous of discussing question of his recall with the Secretary of State. 948
Dec. 4 To the German Ambassador. Refuses interview with Boy-Ed_ _ _ 949
A 7921 Dec. 5 From the German Ambassador. His Government wishes to know why the recall of the attachés is requested. 949
Dec. 5 To the German Ambassador. Request for recall of Boy-Ed and Von Papen repeated. Names of others who have offended also mentioned. 949
Dec. 10 To the German Ambassador. Urges prompt compliance with request for recall of Boy-Ed and Von Papen. 951
A 8061 Dec. 10 From the German Ambassador. Announces recall of naval and military attachés and requests that safe-conduct be obtained for them and their successors. 951
Dec. 11 To the German Ambassador. Safe-conduct has been requested for the attachés. When the acceptability of their successors has been decided safe-conducts will be provided for them. 952
Dec. 15 To the German Ambassador. Arrangements for return home of Boy-Ed and Von Papen. 952
Dec. 18 To the German Ambassador. Furnishes safe-conduct and passports for Boy-Ed and Von Papen. 952

Protection of American Institutions and Interests in Turkey

[Page CXVII]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
198 Jan. 29 [Rec’d Feb. 26] From the Ambassador in Turkey. Transmits official notification of date of effect of the new regulations governing foreign institutions. 953
533 Mar. 27 From the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). Proposes conference of presidents of American colleges to reach an understanding with Minister of Public Instruction as to changes in the new instructions. 953
236 Mar. 5 [Rec’d Apr. 2] From the Ambassador in Turkey. Verbal consent of the Minister of War that the Tennessee and North Carolina may remain in Turkish waters. 954
Apr. 5 [Rec’d Apr. 28] From the Ambassador in Turkey. Has succeeded in obtaining delay in enforcing regulations for foreign institutions. Requests data regarding status of foreign schools in the United States with view to obtaining reciprocity of treatment. 954
374 July 27 [Rec’d Aug. 25] From the Ambassador in Turkey. Detailed report regarding assistance rendered by American cruisers along Syrian coast to Americans and others wishing to leave Turkey. 955
1008 Sept. 4 [Rec’d Sept. 6] From the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). American schools will open under great difficulties and restrictions. 958

Special Efforts in Behalf of British, French, and Italian Nationals, and of Foreigners Generally, in Turkey

[Page CXVIII][Page CXIX][Page CXX]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
418 Feb. 18 [Rec’d Feb. 19] From the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). Repeated to the Ambassador in Great Britain. Three Englishmen to be shot in retaliation for killing of Moslems in bombardment at Alexandretta. An indemnity to families might prevent the incident. 958
238 Jan. 8 [Rec’d Feb. 26] From the Consul at Aleppo. Communication between American, British, and Syrian authorities regarding the bombardment of Alexandretta. 959
459 Feb. 28 From the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). Attack on Constantinople imminent. Have been asked to communicate with Allies with view to avoiding bombardment. Instructions desired. 961
446 Mar. 2 To the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). Grants permission to act as an intermediary to save Constantinople from bombardment. 961
1723 Mar. 2 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Repeated to the Ambassador in Turkey. Transmits British expression of appreciation, to be conveyed to Morgenthau for his offer to pay indemnity to Moslem families. Negotiations left in his hands. 962
467 Mar. 2 [Rec’d Mar. 3] From the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). Grand Vizier disapproves threats of military commander. Discussion of indemnity for families of slain Moslems. 962
470 Mar. 3 [Rec’d Mar. 4] From the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). Constantinople fortifies against attack of the Allies. Suggests that Germany be informed of her responsibility for fate of non-Moslems. 963
491 Mar. 9 [Rec’d Mar. 10] From the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). Suggests that the Allies be requested to agree to neutral zone for protection of non-combatants. 963
1261 Mar. 12 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). The same, mutatis mutandis, to the Ambassadors in France and Russia. Morgenthau suggests establishment of neutral zones for safety of non-combatants. 964
1360 Mar. 12 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). The same, mutatis mutandis, to the Ambassador in Austria-Hungary. Instructions to impress upon German Government the necessity of protection of non-combatants in case the Allies attack Constantinople. 964
504 Mar. 14 [Rec’d Mar. 15] From the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). Bombardment of Smyrna; truce; demands of Allies; probable resumption of hostilities. 964
505 Mar. 16 From the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). Assurance given that Turkish Government will endeavor to protect non-combatants. 965
565 Mar. 16 [Rec’d Mar. 17] From the Ambassador in Austria-Hungary (telegram). Satisfactory interview with Minister for Foreign Affairs regarding possible massacres in Turkey. 965
1891 Mar. 22 [Rec’d Mar. 23] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). German Ambassador in Turkey has been instructed by his Government to use his influence for safety of non-combatants. 966
648 Mar. 25 From the Ambassador in France (telegram). French Government cannot accept proposals of safety zones in Turkey. 966
1844 Mar. 26 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). British cannot accept proposals of safety zones in Turkey. 966
Mar. 29 From the Ambassador in Russia (telegram). Russia declares that Constantinople will not be injured by the Allies unless Turks use it for military operations. 967
540 Mar. 29 [Rec’d Mar. 30] From the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). Agreement as to amount of indemnity for families of victims of British bombardment. English prisoners freed. 967
Mar. 9 [Rec’d Apr. 8] From the Consul General at Smyrna. Transmits copy of his despatch to Morgenthau giving report of bombardment of Smyrna. 967
623 May 2 [Rec’d May 3] From the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). Transmitted to the Ambassadors in Great Britain and France. British and French subjects in Turkey will be sent to unfortified places to be exposed to Allied bombardment. Request that their Governments be notified. 969
631 May 4 [Rec’d May 5] From the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). English and French will be placed on Turkish transports as targets for Allied guns. Asks that this be brought to notice of Germany. 969
1624 May 5 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Instructions to notify German Government of Turkish intention to expose non-combatants to bombardment of the Allies. 969
639 May 4 [Rec’d May 6] From the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram.) Minister of War agreed to send only fifty non-combatants into the war zone, pending nature of reply from French and British Governments. 970
641 May 6 [Rec’d May 7] From the Ambassador in, Turkey (telegram). Twenty-six British and twenty-four French placed on board a transport for Gallipoli. Philip (Embassy Staff) accompanied them. 970
654 May 7 To the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). Department disapproves member of Embassy staff accompanying British and French on transport. Philip to return to Embassy. 970
2228 May 14 [Rec’d May 15] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Reported British attack on hospital and hospital ship in the Marmora. Turkey desires to carry on war in humane manner; has sent back non-combatants from Dardanelles after admonition of German and Austrian Ambassadors. 971
665 May 15 From the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). The fifty belligerents [non-combatants] were set free. Philip’s presence most useful. Most of Gallipoli’s population has departed. 971
712 May 28 To the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). Instructions to request the Tennessee to take on board at Beirut Italian consuls from Syria and those at Jerusalem and Haifa, landing them at Alexandria. 972
707 May 28 [Rec’d June 1] From the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). Deportation of belligerent subjects from Aleppo commenced. 972
299 May 11 [Rec’d June 3] From the Ambassador in Turkey. Résumé of situation in Turkey _ _ _ _ 972
721 June 3 [Rec’d June 7] From the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). New law empowers military to expel populations whenever they regard it necessary. Deportations of British and French from Damascus begun. 974
280 May 14 [Rec’d July 3] From the Ambassador in Turkey. Negotiations for release of British and French subjects in Turkey since beginning of the war. 974
908 July 31 To the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). British Government has informed Department of danger from mines in blockaded area and suggests arrangement with the Turkish Government for embarkation of the Italian colony from Sighajik. 976
911 Aug. 5 [Rec’d Aug. 7] From the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). Italian, Russian and Montenegrin interests in Turkey. Arrangements being made for Italian subjects to leave Turkey. 976
936 Aug. 16 [Rec’d Aug. 19] From the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). Repeated to the Ambassadors in Great Britain and France. Turkish Government has frustrated plans to transport Italians. Asks that French and British be requested to arrange for transportation of Jews. 977
947 Aug. 20 [Rec’d Aug.23] From the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). Transmitted to the Ambassador in Great Britain. Permission to distribute relief funds refused. Ill treatment of deported Armenians. Christians in danger. British Jews awaiting transportation. 977
959 Aug. 22 [Rec’d Aug. 25] From the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). British and French who are forced to leave Turkey may land at Crete. 978
2749 Sept. 4 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Repeated to the Ambassador in Turkey. Egyptian Government has agreed to give deported Jews refuge in Egypt. Morgenthau requested to make arrangements. 978
1175 Oct. 21 [Rec’d Oct. 24] From the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram) War Office has promised to send civil subjects of belligerents to Aintab. 979
1386 Dec. 14 [Rec’d Dec. 18] From the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). Interned persons at Urfa being sent to Konia. 979
[Page CXXI]

Efforts in Behalf of Armenians and Jews in Turkey

[Page CXXII]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
397 Feb. 18 To the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). Sentiment in Syria and Palestine is against the Jews. Instructions to attempt to secure a Turkish order holding civil and military officials responsible for lives and property. 979
430 Feb. 20 [Rec’d Feb. 21] From the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). Minister of Interior states that Jews and Christians are safe. Have requested Sublime Porte to send instructions for their protection to Syria and Palestine. 979
626 Apr. 27 To the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). Armenian Church appeals to the United States to prevent massacres. 980
608 Apr. 27 [Rec’d Apr. 28] From the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). American citizen of Persian origin arrested. Concerted movement against non-Turkish element. 980
633 Apr. 29 To the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). Urge Turkish Government to protect Armenians and Zionists. 980
624 May 2 [Rec’d May 3] From the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). Joined by Italian Ambassador in making Strong representations to Sublime Porte for safety of innocent people. Movement against Zionists suspended. 981
796 May 28 From the Ambassador in France (telegram). Repeated to the Ambassador in Turkey. Transmits Foreign Office message for Ottoman Government, protesting massacre of Armenians and holding Sublime Porte responsible. 981
778 June 18 [Rec’d June 21] From the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). Grand Vizier resentful at attempted interference by foreign governments. Persecutions of Armenians increasing. 982
841 July 10 [Rec’d July 14] From the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). Describes Turkish plan to crush the Armenian race. 982
Undated [Rec’d July 14] From the Secretary of the American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions (telegram). Inhuman treatment of Armenians by the Turks. 984
865 July 16 To the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). Approves his urging Turkish officials to stop Armenian persecutions. Inquires if any American citizens have been injured. 984
July 19 To the Secretary of the American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions. Turkish Government claims that a large number of Armenians are in armed rebellion against Turkish authority. 984
866 July 20 [Rec’d July 23] From the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). The Embassy has not heard of any injury to American citizens in Turkey. 985
929 Aug. 12 [Rec’d Aug. 16] From the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). German Government objects to statements made by Turks that anti-Armenian measures originated with Germans. 985
924 Aug. 11 [Rec’d Aug. 16] From the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). Suggests that the United States appeal to both Turkey and Germany in an effort to stop persecution of Armenians. 985
955 Aug, 18 To the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). Inquires if protest by German Ambassador has improved conditions. 987
940 Aug. 18 [Rec’d Aug. 21] From the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). Protestant and Catholic Armenians exempt from deportation. Have requested exemption of all connected with colleges and institutions. 987
950 Aug. 20 [Rec’d Aug. 23] From the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). German Ambassador’s protest has not improved conditions. Bulgarians have made strong representations. 987
1005 Sept. 3 [Rec’d Sept. 6] From the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). Suggests that a committee be formed to raise funds for assisting in emigration of Armenians to west coast of America. 988
1092 Sept. 22 To the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). Insurmountable difficulties in way of wholesale emigration of Armenians. Inquires if money would relieve situation. 988
1140 Oct. 4 To the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). Instructions to continue good offices for amelioration of Armenian conditions. Persecution is destroying U. S. good will toward Turkey. 988
1165 Oct. 6 To the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). Asks permission for Armenians to leave Turkey if they have relatives in America who will pay their expenses. 989
1130 Oct. 9 [Rec’d Oct. 12] From the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). Sublime Porte will consider applications for emigration of Armenians to the United States. 989
400 Oct. 12 [Rec’d Oct. 13] From the Minister in the Netherlands (telegram). Netherland Minister at Constantinople instructed to join the U. S. Ambassador in efforts to prevent Armenian atrocities. 989
A 5952 Oct. 8 [Rec’d Oct. 16] From the German Ambassador. Transmits copy of German memorandum to Turkey regarding acts of violence against Armenians. 989
[Page CXXIII]

Protection of Germans and Turks in Persia

No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
127 Dec. 30, 1914 To the Ambassador in Russia (telegram). Instructions to act in behalf of Germans captured on Persian territory. 990
19 Jan. 14 From the Ambassador in Russia (telegram). Statements of German authorities regarding treatment of Germans expelled from Persia, are without foundation. 991
186 Feb. 1 To the Ambassador in Russia (telegram). German Ambassador requests Russia to liberate Germans taken prisoner on neutral territory. 991
89 Mar. 12 [Rec’d Apr. 7] From the Ambassador in Russia. Transmits Russian note stating grounds for declining to liberate the Germans arrested in Persia. 991
349 May 26 To the Ambassador in Russia (telegram). Instructions to inquire for the German Government whether Russia has freed German prisoners taken in Persia. 992
63 May 17 [Rec’d June 15] From the Minister in Persia. German families allowed refuge in the Embassy. Protection and use of our flag asked by the Turkish Ambassador. 992
193 June 14 [Rec’d June 15] From the Ambassador in Russia (telegram). Communicated to the German Ambassador. Russia will not liberate German prisoners taken in Persia. 993
21 June 30 To the Minister in Persia. American flag may be used over Turkish Legation unless the Persian Government objects. 993
A 4904 Aug. 7 [Rec’d Aug. 11] From the German Ambassador. Asks on what grounds Russian Government refuses to free German prisoners. 994
1587 Sept. 13 To the German Ambassador. Inquiry should be made of Persia as to grounds on which Germans were taken prisoner. 994
Nov. 17 [Rec’d Nov.19] From the Minister in Persia (telegram). Russian army near Teheran; Turkish Ambassador and German Minister have fled. Have assumed charge of their Legations. Persian officials ask protection. 994
Nov. 19 To the Minister in Persia (telegram). Approves his assuming temporary charge of German and Turkish interests. 995
Nov. 26 [Rec’d Nov.28] From the Minister in Persia (telegram). Recommends that our protection and flag be withdrawn from Turkish Embassy and German Legation until in imminent danger. 995
Nov. 30 To the Minister in Persia (telegram). Cannot approve of any nationals taking refuge in our Legation unless in imminent danger of their lives. 995
105 Nov. 24 [Rec’d Dec. 27] From the Minister in Persia. Transmits Persian expression of thanks for safekeeping of archives, and notes from British and Russian Ministers regarding German and Turkish interests in Persia. 995
[Page CXXIV]

Activities of the United States in Regard to Prisoners of War and Interned Civilians: American General Plan for Inspection and Relief

[Page CXXV][Page CXXVI]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
649 Dec. 11, 1914 [Rec’d Dec. 21] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Transmits letter from Chandler P. Anderson and memorandum concerning treatment by belligerents of enemy aliens and prisoners of war, and American relief work. 997
1352 Dec. 28, 1914 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). British request to communicate to Germany protest against inhuman treatment of British prisoners. Money will be furnished for their relief. 1003
927 Dec. 31, 1914 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Instructions to communicate British protest against inhuman treatment of British prisoners in German camps. 1004
963 Jan. 15 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Repeated to the Ambassador in Germany. This Government willing to inspect prisoners’ camps and distribute food. Suggests plan of operation. 1004
1474 Jan. 15 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). British Government requests that U. S. officials visit German prison camps and supervise distribution of money and provisions for British prisoners. 1005
1020 Jan. 16 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Plan for relief of prisoners to be communicated to the German Government. 1006
977 Jan. 16 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). This Government will undertake the relief of British prisoners in Germany. 1007
446 Jan. 19 To the Ambassador in Austria-Hungary (telegram). The United States is willing to tender its good offices to Austria-Hungary in behalf of prisoners of war if requested to do so. 1007
1595 Feb. 5 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). The British Government accepts U. S. plan for the aid of prisoners. 1008
1151 Feb. 6 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). British are eager to begin relief of prisoners. Preliminary sum to be supplied at once if it can be used advantageously. 1009
1641 Feb. 19 [Rec’d Feb. 20] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). No authorization needed for acceptance of money for British prisoners. German Government has not replied to relief proposal. 1009
739 Feb. 23 From the Austro-Hungarian Ambassador. Release and relief of Russian and Austro-Hungarian prisoners. Approval of American plan. 1009
546 Mar. 1 To the Ambassador in Austria-Hungary (telegram). Inquires whether Austria-Hungary wishes to make formal request of Russia for reciprocity in relief of prisoners. 1010
545 Mar. 11 [Rec’d Mar. 12] From the Ambassador in Austria-Hungary (telegram). Austro-Hungarian Government anxious to make immediate ararrangements with Russia for camp inspection. 1010
1824 Mar. 11 [Rec’d Mar. 12] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Transmits German official acceptance of relief proposals for prisoners, with certain restrictions. 1011
243 Mar. 15 To the Ambassador in Russia (telegram). Austria-Hungary desires to make an agreement with Russia for the inspection of prison camps. Outline of plan. 1012
Mar. 18 From the President of the United States to the Emperor of Russia. Offers services of the U. S. Government and Red Cross for relief of prisoners in Siberia. 1013
1415 Mar. 24 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram.) Instructions to confirm details of plan for relief of prisoners. 1013
1926 Mar. 26 [Rec’d Mar.27] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Desires notice of specific acceptance by Great Britain, France, and Russia of proposals regarding prison relief. 1014
1334 Mar. 29 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Requests copy of British reply to German proposals regarding condition of war prisoners. 1014
1943 Mar. 29 [Rec’d Mar. 30] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Report on the working out of prison relief plan, giving names of men who will inspect prison camps. 1015
1856 Mar. 30 [Rec’d Mar. 31] From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Transmits British note advocating similar arrangements in Great Britain and Germany for distribution of supplies and visitation of detention camps. 1015
1891 Apr. 6 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Grey requests that Germany be assured of British acceptance of the German scheme for inspection of prison camps. 1016
2064 Apr. 16 [Rec’d Apr. 17] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Acknowledges receipt of British acceptance of German scheme of camp inspection. 1017
103 Mar. 27 [Rec’d Apr. 21] From the Ambassador in Russia. Transmits Russian note with regulations regarding visitation of prison camps and distribution of supplies, and states that copy has been sent to American Embassy at Vienna. 1017
2135 Apr. 29] [Rec’d May 1] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Suggests that American and Spanish Ambassadors meet in Switzerland to confer with prison authorities regarding prisoners’ exchanges, etc. 1018
119 Apr. 15 [Rec’d May 10] From the Ambassador in Russia to the President. Description of visit to the Tsar and delivery of the President’s letter of Mar. 18 regarding prisoners. 1018
May 1 [Rec’d June 7] From the Ambassador in Russia to the Chief Clerk of the Department of State. Transmits autograph letter from the Tsar to the President and note from Sazonov regarding reciprocal treatment of prisoners in Russia and in Germany and Austria-Hungary. 1020
375 June 15 To the Ambassador in Russia (telegram). The United States is ready to cooperate in relief of Russian prisoners upon approval of Spanish, German, and Austrian Governments. 1021
1866 June 23 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). A conference regarding prisoners could not properly be initiated by this Government. 1022
235 July 23 [Rec’d July 25] From the Ambassador in Russia (telegram). Russian Government will request Spanish approval of American relief work among Russian prisoners in Germany and Austria-Hungary. 1022
245 Aug. 3 [Rec’d Aug. 4] From the Ambassador in Russia (telegram). Spanish Government instructs its ambassadors to render all assistance possible to Americans in prison-relief work. 1023
253 Aug. 9 From the Ambassador in Russia (telegram). Russian Government has given consent that American Red Cross operate throughout Russia in the most convenient way. 1023

Negotiations Relating to the Work of Belgian Relief

[Page CXXVII][Page CXXVIII][Page CXXIX]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
Jan. 2 From the Minister in Belgium (telegram). Assurances given by Von Bissing that imported foodstuffs will not be requisitioned in occupied Belgian territory. 1023
184 Dec. 29, 1914 [Rec’d Jan. 12] From the Minister in the Netherlands. German civil commander of Limburg has exacted a tax on foodstuffs imported for the relief of civilians. Shipments have been ordered discontinued until tax is removed and money refunded. 1024
999 Jan. 13 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Inquires if import tax is exacted on foodstuffs sent for the relief of Limburg Province. 1024
399 Jan. 2 [Rec’d Jan. 16] From the Ambassador in Germany. Transmits copy of his note to Zimmermann asking that no requisitions of food in Belgium be made during relief campaign and that relief ships be protected; also copy of reply. 1025
1305 [1355] Jan. 16 From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Tax removed in Limburg Province and money refunded. Investigation dropped. 1026
81 Jan. 21 To the Minister in the Netherlands (telegram). Instructions to confirm report that tax has been removed and money refunded in Limburg Province. 1026
1540 Jan. 27 [Rec’d Jan. 28] From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Transmits message from Hoover regarding food situation in Belgium and proposed methods of relief. 1026
Undated [Rec’d Jan. 28] From the German Ambassador (telegram). German Government guarantees not to molest foodstuffs imported for civilian population. 1027
502 Jan. 28 From the Ambassador in France (telegram). Requests permission to present to Foreign Office, Hoover’s request for permission to deliver maize to Belgian civilians. 1027
528 Jan. 29 To the Ambassador in France (telegram). Grants permission to present to Foreign Office Hoover’s request to deliver maize to Belgium. 1028
1091 Jan. 30 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Visit of Hoover to Germany in the interests of Belgium. 1028
195 Jan. 22 [Rec’d Feb. 6] From the Minister in the Netherlands. Tax on foodstuffs to Limburg Province said to be mistake on part of German authorities. Encloses a note from Gerard. 1028
196 Jan. 22 [Rec’d Feb. 6] From the Minister in the Netherlands. Cooperation of the Netherlands in facilitating transportation of supplies to Belgium. 1030
538 Feb. 10 From the Ambassador in France (telegram). Foreign Office will permit shipment of maize to Rotterdam for distribution in Belgium. 1030
46 Jan. 28 [Rec’d Feb. 15] From the Minister in Belgium. Transmits note from German military authorities in Belgium regarding the requisition of foodstuffs. 1030
47 Jan. 28 [Rec’d Feb. 15] From the Minister in Belgium. Transmits letter from German military authorities in Belgium stating that cattle and their food are exempt from requisition when imported by the Comité National. 1031
34 Jan. 26 [Rec’d Feb. 17] From the Minister in Belgium. German assurance that foodstuffs imported for Givet, Fumay, and other specified regions, will be exempt from requisition. 1032
52 Feb. 2 [Rec’d Feb. 24] From the Minister in Belgium. Encloses note from German military authorities in Belgium announcing exemption of pharmaceutical supplies from requisition. 1032
53 Feb. 3 [Rec’d Feb. 24] From the Minister in Belgium. Revictualing of the Maubeuge district. 1033
173 Feb. 27 From the Minister in the Netherlands (telegram). Suggests that United States protest against German refusal to give safe-conduct for ships of the Relief Commission en route to and from Rotterdam. 1033
181 Mar. 3 From the Minister in the Netherlands (telegram). Germany will permit Relief Commission ships to pass through English Channel unmolested; cannot give safe-conduct through war zone. 1034
1756 Mar. 10 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Grey gives assurance to the Relief Commission that neither its flag nor its markings will be used by the British. 1034
215 Mar. 3 [Rec’d Mar.16] From the Minister in the Netherlands. Transmits German memorandum regarding the safe-conduct of relief ships. Comments thereon. 1034
1423 Mar. 25 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Instructions to bring to attention of German Government that the Elfland, a relief ship, was attacked by a German aeroplane. 1035
1989 Apr. 6 [Rec’d Apr. 7] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Foreign Office declares that attack on the Elfland was made by mistake; suggests that horizontal markings on ships be erected. 1035
1527 Apr. 17 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Forwards despatch from London, for communication to Foreign Office, concerning the torpedoing of the Relief Commission ship Harpalyce and German refusal to grant safe-conducts. 1036
1547 Apr. 21 To the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Transportation difficulties encountered by the Belgian Relief Commission and antagonism of German Minister at The Hague. 1036
2089 Apr. 20 [Rec’d Apr. 21] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). German Legation and submarines instructed to let Relief Commission ships pass under certain conditions. 1037
2046 May 5 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Grey requests that statements made by survivors of the Harpalyce be brought to the attention of the United States. 1038
2156 May 4 [Rec’d May 6] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). Transmits correspondence regarding permission of German Government for safe-conduct for certain relief ships. 1038
1525 May 7 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Transmits report of German investigation of sinking of the Harpalyce. 1039
July 10 From the Minister in Belgium (telegram). Governor General has given assurances that, this year’s crop in his district shall be reserved for use of the Belgian civil population. 1039
2736 Sept. 3 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). British, German, and Dutch Governments agree to the use by the Relief Commission of German interned ships. United States consent is requested. 1040
2088 Sept. 9 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Inquires if British Government has officially sanctioned the use of German interned ships. 1040
2986 Oct. 11 From the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). Plan to use German interned ships abandoned on account of objections of France. 1040

Negotiations Relating to the Work of the Red Cross

[Page CXXX]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
Jan. 23 To Diplomatic and Consular Officers. Relation of Foreign Service officers to the Red Cross defined. 1040
77 Mar. 19 To the Minister in Roumania, Servia, and Bulgaria (telegram). Dr. Strong to be sent [to Servia] with large stores and hospital supplies. 1041
61 Mar. 30 [Rec’d Mar.31] From the Minister in Roumania, Servia, and Bulgaria (telegram). Transmits note from the Servian Minister of Foreign Affairs expressing gratitude for the relief of their sick and wounded. 1042
760 June 11 To the Ambassador in Turkey (telegram). Diplomatic and consular officers in Turkey will be allowed to serve as officers of the American Red Cross. 1042
July 16 From the Chairman of the National Relief Board of the American Red Cross. The Red Cross will recall the units of surgeons and nurses in Europe because of exhausted funds. It will continue to send hospital supplies. 1042
July 21 To the Ambassadors and Ministers in European Belligerent Countries (telegram). The Red Cross regrets the necessity of recalling its units of surgeons and nurses from belligerent countries. 1044
2744 Aug. 16 [Rec’d Aug. 17] From the Ambassador in Germany (telegram). German Government anxious to know if the American Red Cross will aid German and Austro-Hungarian prisoners in Russia and Siberia, expenses to be paid by Germany. 1044
1001 Sept. 20 From the Ambassador in Russia (telegram). Application for permission for Red Cross to work among German prisoners in Russia calls forth an inquiry as to whether Russian prisoners will receive similar treatment in Germany 1044
506 Sept. 24 To the Ambassador in Russia (telegram). Red Cross to finance Russian mission in Germany to extent of $10,000. German Government will finance mission in Russia. 1045
334 Oct. 28 From the Ambassador in Russia (telegram). Foreign Office proposes that work of Red Cross be confined to visiting internment camps, distributing assistance, and studying Russian methods 1045
616 Nov. 5 To the Ambassador in Russia (telegram). Red Cross has proffered services to German prisoners in Russia. Inquires if like services to Russians in Germany are acceptable. 1045
360 Nov. 23 [Rec’d Nov.26] From the Ambassador in Russia (telegram). American Red Cross can be allowed only to distribute material aid to prisoners in Russia. Russia will not subscribe funds for support of Red Cross in Germany. 1046
2518 Nov. 30 To the Ambassador in Great Britain (telegram). American Red Cross has asked permits to send supplies to hospitals of Central powers, but without reply. 1046
641 Dec. 1 To the Ambassador in Russia (telegram). Instructions to ascertain exact attitude of Russian Government toward Red Cross and if withdrawal of units is desired. Forwards memorandum of the Russian Embassy. 1047
435 Dec. 15 [Rec’d Dec. 16] From the British Ambassador. British Government will pass medical stores to Germany if each shipment is guaranteed exclusive use by the Red Cross. 1048
379 Dec. 21 [Rec’d Dec. 22] From the Ambassador in Russia (telegram). Further explanation of situation in Russia regarding Red Cross work. 1048
Dec. 24 [Rec’d Dec. 27] From the British Ambassador. Transmits statement to press that Great Britain has not refused shipment of hospital supplies to Central powers. 1049

Exemption of Hospital Supplies from Seizure as Contraband of War

[Page CXXXI]
No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
1409 May 17 [Rec’d June 1] From the Ambassador in Great Britain. Proposed list of hospital supplies would be accepted by Great Britain as non-contraband if accepted by other belligerents. 1050
June 25 To the Ambassador in Italy. The same, mutatis mutandis, to the Ambassadors in France, Germany, Austria-Hungary, Russia, Japan, Turkey, and Spain. Instructions for joint action with Spanish representative regarding hospital supplies as non-contraband. 1050
July 17 [Rec’d July 19] From the Spanish Ambassador. Asks to be informed of views prompting recent instructions to diplomatic representatives on subject of hospital supplies. 1051
July 27 To the Spanish Ambassador. The United States could not withdraw from its expressed willingness to be of assistance when opportunity arrived. 1052
Aug. 3 [Rec’d Aug. 5] From the Spanish Ambassador. Spanish Government has instructed its representatives to proceed jointly with the U. S. representatives in negotiations for exportation of hospital supplies. 1053
363 Aug. 7 From the Ambassador in Italy (telegram). Italian Government will consider as non-contraband medicines, sanitary supplies and surgical appliances. 1053
1673 Oct. 19 [Rec’d Nov. 1] From the Ambassador in Germany. Forwards German note to the Spanish Ambassador showing willingness to consider hospital supplies as non-contraband of war on basis of reciprocity. 1053

The Display of Distinguishing Marks by American Naval Vessels on the High Seas

No. Date From and to whom Subject Page
A 7824 Dec. 1 [Rec’d Dec. 2] From the German Ambassador. German Government requests that American warships in the Mediterranean display the national flag clearly by day and by night. 1054
1692 Dec. 10 To the German Ambassador. Transmits note from the Secretary of the Navy stating reasons why Navy Department must decline to issue orders as suggested by German Government. 1055
Jan. 28, 1916 From the Secretary of the Navy. Department is unable to change its attitude in relation to the matter of display of flag. 1056
2298 Jan. 24, 1916 [Rec’d Feb. 17] From the Ambassador in Germany. Transmits note from Von Jagow stating that request to make flag clearly visible on American ships was a friendly suggestion, not an instruction. 1056