File No. 763.72/2483
The Ambassador in Germany (Gerard) to the Secretary of State
[Received March 11, 8.15 a. m.]
3606. Editorial in Frankfurter Zeitung attempts [survey] of political situation at Washington and comes to the conclusion that the only thing that is sure is that Congress is not pleased with the President’s conduct affairs hitherto and demands that it be consulted before the Government takes further steps. The customary dissension and lack of cohesion in the Democratic Party is responsible for the weakened position of the Government. In these circumstances the President is bound to be influenced subconsciously in his foreign policy by party considerations; and the fact that influential Republicans like Taft and Root are urging him to be firmer against Germany has elements of danger, for history teaches that tottering governments have always sought security by throwing themselves into the arms of the loudest noise makers.
Cologne Gazette thinks the President wanted to learn the sentiment of the House, but the House laying the resolution of warning on the table showed that it reserves its opinion on submarine warfare.