File No. 763.72111/4371b
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in France ( Sharp)
[Telegram]
Washington,
December 27, 1916, 3 p.m.
1902. Press reports that French Government is issuing commissions in the Navy to all commanders of French Line vessels trading [Page 543] to New York. Please ascertain if this report is correct, whether these commissions are now in force, and whether this policy applies to other French lines.
It is also reported that these vessels will trade between Halifax and Bordeaux when arrangements to that end have been completed. Please ascertain discreetly if this latter report is correct.
Answer by cable.
Lansing