File No. 300.115A13/3
The Consul at Plymouth ( Stephens) to the Secretary of State
[Received March 17, 3.25 p.m.]
Summary affidavit Captain Norberk, steamer Algonquin: cargo foodstuffs, copper, tin, machinery, acids, formaldehyde, New York for London, attacked without warning by German submarine. Algonquin flying American ensign, American flag painted on ship’s sides, weather clear, sea calm, firing ceased only after lifeboats were clear ship. Vessel sunk by shell fire and bombs. Captain made no attempt escape. Submarine stopped engines first shot. Crew 27 hours in boats, no hardships other than fatigue, none injured, no vessels sighted after attack. Affidavits chief mate, Frank Kerney, chief engineer, Charles Schultz, confirm captain’s affidavit. Affidavit mess boy, James Finnerty, confirms other affidavits with addition that crew suffered severely from exposure to cold in lifeboats during night. Gives name of submarine U–38.