File No. 763.72/2417a

The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Great Britain ( Page )

[Telegram]

2882. Draft of note as amended submitted by German Ambassador to his Government Wednesday. It states that it is recognized that retaliation is justifiable against acts committed in contravention of law. Germany began such retaliation against England for attempting to cut off all German commerce. Neutral lives were lost and that was not intention of Germany, as retaliation must not injure other than enemy subjects.

Germany expresses profound regret and accepts liability and agrees to pay indemnity. Points out Germany has already limited submarine warfare in view of friendship for the United States. This draft now under consideration by German Government.

In view of new orders of Germany in regard to armed merchant ships and interviews given out by German officials misstating position of this Government, we will move slowly in matter even if German reply is satisfactory. Please communicate this to House.

Lansing