File No. 851.857Su8/12b

The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Germany (Gerard)

[Telegram]

2852. Department has received considerable evidence to the effect that the Channel steamer Sussex, loaded with passengers including several American citizens, was torpedoed and sunk on the 24th instant by a torpedo from a submarine. Please immediately inquire of the Foreign Office whether the Sussex was sunk by a submarine belonging to Germany or her allies. A prompt reply is expected.

Lansing