File No. 763.72111/3832
The French Ambassador (Jusserand) to the Secretary of State
[Received June 21.]
Mr. Secretary of State: Referring to the conversation I had the honor to have with your excellency on the 17th of this month, I have the honor to say that there would seem to be some advantage, in order to avoid some writing and chances of delay that are at times harmful, in altering the method now in practice when merchant vessels carrying armament for defense call at American ports.
This Embassy, with the permission of the Government of the Republic, having given once for all the assurance that the said armament will be used for defense only, I venture to suggest that it be no longer required to write another note on every arrival. If your excellency would kindly agree to it, the consul of the district at which the vessel calls might furnish the requisite assurance to the collector of customs, who would then issue the clearance papers.
I should be very thankful to your excellency if, in accordance with the indications you were so kind as to give me, you would decide to have it done in this way and cause the appropriate instructions to be issued to whomever it may concern.
Be pleased [etc.]