File No. 855.48/508
The Director of the Commission for Relief in Belgium (Honnold) to the Secretary of State
[Received 3 p.m.]
For your information we quote following cable from our London Office.
Tuesday, Rotterdam. Telegram dated Monday, begins: Adolf Deppe Company just received following cable from Stavanger:
Tunisie, Haelen attacked by submarine without warning outside danger zone 56° 15′ N., 5° 32′ E. Ships not sunk. Port boat Haelen smashed by shell. Seven men killed. Hole in ship’s port bunker above water line. Sundry damages decks and engines. Tunisie proceeding on voyage.
Standaert
Killed include first and third officers. Apparently Haelen proceeded Stavanger under own steam. Have instructed Deppe have temporary repairs made Stavanger and proceed American destination. Pilot reports that while he was leaving ships off Hook two German seaplanes appeared circling around and examining carefully our ships, then flying northward. Protesting German Legation and through Dutch and Spanish, also in Brussels. Both ships provided all commission markings, safe-conducts, and guaranties absolute safety certified German Minister, Hague.
Protesting here through Spanish Embassy and Swiss Legation. Will keep you advised.