File No. 367.116/482
The Chargé in Turkey ( Philip ) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 17, 8 a. m.]
1800. Minister for Foreign Affairs sent the Assistant Undersecretary of State to the Embassy to inform me that the military authorities have decided to take buildings American college Sivas for temporary use of wounded, as that place is now within the sphere of military operations. Assistant Undersecretary stated that in order to prevent all possible friction, Minister for Foreign Affairs requested me to inform the American missionaries of this decision so that they should not oppose its execution. After consulting Peet 3 [Page 833] who considered himself obliged to submit to this decision, I telegraphed his consent to Sivas mission. To-day Peet telegraphed mission to take from military authorities duly signed inventories covering buildings and contents delivered. I have later been informed that military authorities contemplated taking over other mission buildings within the sphere of military operations. I have cautioned the Sublime Porte to take all proper measures to provide Americans and their dependents with comfortable residences in case any of their buildings are taken, and should any of them desire to come away, to extend all necessary assistance. I shall see the Minister for Foreign Affairs Monday, May 15, and insist upon this again. Please inform Barton.1