File No. 763.72/6079b
The Acting Secretary of State to Diplomatic and Consular Officers
Gentlemen: The Department of State is anxious to be kept more fully informed concerning political events in foreign countries, especially those having to do with the war. Diplomatic and consular officials are requested, therefore, to make a particular effort to advise the Department, confidentially and otherwise, concerning all political developments of interest, and economic and industrial developments which may have a political tinge, or an effect on the general situation. Particular attention should be given to matters which the Department may desire to give to the American press or, possibly, to make a part of an information service to diplomatic and consular officers which is about to be established.
Especial attention should be paid to the effect of American participation in the war and the attitude toward the belligerency of the United States, adverse or otherwise.
I am [etc.]