File No. 124.55/15
The Chargé in the Netherlands (Langhorne) to the Secretary of State
[Received 10 p.m.]
815. Associated Press correspondent informs me that he was told by German Legation that American members of relief commission and American officials in Belgium will be detained for period of not more than four weeks to prevent spread of military information. This detention would apply also to Whitlock and staff whom German Government regards on same basis as members of relief commission since severance of diplomatic relations. As matter of courtesy detention of Whitlock might be shortened. Expect courier from Brussels to-night who may bring definite information on matter.