File No. 763.72/3146
The Ambassador in Germany ( Gerard ) to the Secretary of State
[Received January 19, 1 p.m.]
4895. Press summary: Considerable prominence given to English and French press reports of plans [as] to armament of merchantmen. Article by naval correspondent of Lokal Anzeiger claims that since the abolition of privateering international law has never countenanced resistance or self-defense on part of merchantmen but that this is a wrong for which the law provides penalties.
In opening address President of Prussian Lower House said:
The leading statesmen of our enemies have given such a shocking reply to the suggestion of the President of the United States, as well as to our note previously, have set up such unheard of peace conditions, and used such impudent language in so doing that the only reply left to us is that of our arms and it is to be hoped that this reply will be given to Messrs. Briand and Lloyd George very soon and with sufficient plainness by our great generals, by our splendid troops, and not least by our efficient submarines. (Cheers on all sides.)
General von Roehl said in Naumburg speech that submarines are to-day at last being employed to the fullest extent and that although policy had occasioned a pause in their use, the Government had never given up the intention of making full use of the weapon.
Charges are being made that Standard Oil Company connived in destruction of petroleum plants in Roumania and the Government is called upon to investigate matters.