File No. 763.72/3147
The Ambassador in Germany ( Gerard) to the Secretary of State
[Received January 19, 3.20 p.m.]
4901. Press summary: In Prussian Lower House Von Heydebrand said: If we want to fight out the victory it is absolutely necessary that the weapons be used which afford us the possibility of really winning the victory against our most stubborn and strongest antagonist, England. (Loud applause.) This requires to be said, if our [Page 91] military instances [leaders?], the highest military command, and the Emperor consider it proper and opportune to make the requisite use of unrestrained submarine warfare, the German and Prussian people will be ready to bear the consequences. (Tremendous applause.)
Interruption by Hoffmann: “Who gives you the right to say that?” (Renewed applause for the speaker.) Hoffmann again interrupts: “That is pure madness.”
“The interruptions by Deputy Hoffmann do not disturb me. The tone of his remarks is wholly inappropriate. In our present situation we want to win and that is the condition precedent to everything that we hope to reach after the war.”
Deputy Herold of Center Party said: “Now that our adversaries have rejected the proffer of peace it is necessary to use all means on land and in the air, over, on, and under, the water. Our submarines can accomplish much more. We leave it to the discretion of our highest military command when this is to take place.”