File No. 763.72/3387
The Greek Legation to the Department of State
Memorandum
Text of the note delivered by the Hellenic Government to the Minister of the United States at Athens in reply to the communication relative to the breaking off of relations between the United States and Germany.
[Page 144]Fully aware of the gravity of the step which the Government of the United States has just taken toward the neutral states, the Royal Government certainly need not lay further stress upon the keen interest it takes in any action that may turn to the advantage of the peace of the world. It is likewise glad of the opportunity to make it of record that it entirely shares the policy of the President of the Great Republic in all that relates to the freedom of the seas and the safety of innocent sea trade in time of war. Therefore the Royal Government did not fail to formulate to the German Government express reservations in view of the dangers that threaten the Hellenic flag as a result of the measures recently announced from Berlin through the wireless telegraph station of Athens. Considering, however, the special conditions in which Greece, notwithstanding her neutrality, is placed in the present war, which conditions are known to the Government of the United States, the Royal Government is not in position to contemplate an attitude or take any action looking to more direct protection of its national shipping.