File No. 763.72111/4112a
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Great Britain (Page)1
3909. German submarines active off coast: Apparent intention is to live up to formal assurances given by Germany in regard to conduct of submarine warfare. French Ambassador yesterday informally discussed question of modifying rules in regard to all submarines entering, neutral ports. He was reminded of attitude of Allies in refusing to consider any modification of rule applying to [Page 772] armed merchantmen in connection with submarine warfare last spring on ground that no change could be made during hostilities. Same point is being made in regard to British withdrawing blockade ships from our coast in response to our protest. In case you should be asked to discuss question it should be borne in mind that at that time the British ships were stationed actually in mouth of Ambrose Channel in full sight of shore and that this was causing unnecessary irritation. It should also be borne in mind that British refused to admit our right to suggest that ships be withdrawn.
- The same, on the same date, to the Chargé in France (No. 1770).↩