File No. 763.72/2518
The Ambassador in Germany (Gerard) to the Secretary of State
[Received March 21, 10.50 a. m.]
3650. Admiral von Capelle appointed Secretary of State of the Navy on the 18th instant. Emperor wrote personal letter to Tirpitz [Page 210] accepting resignation with regret. Many telegrams sent Tirpitz from all over Germany in appreciation of his great services.
German Government publicly disclaims any connection with the sinking of the Tubantia, stating no German submarine was concerned, and that as place of accident was less than 30 miles from the coast of the Netherlands, no German mines are laid there.