File No. 763.72/9696

The Netherland Chargé ( De Beaufort) to the Secretary of State

[Translation]

Mr. Secretary of State: I have the honor to inform Your Excellency that the Royal Government has decided to send a convoy to the Dutch East Indies to relieve the personnel of the Ministry, transfer the Government officials and their families, and carry military supplies for the colonial army.

The convoy will consist of the following ships: The battleship Hertog Hendrik accompanied by a collier for coaling during the voyage. A Dutch merchant vessel transformed into a warship in accordance with the regulations of the seventh convention of 1907 which is to be used in carrying soldiers and a cargo of military supplies. A Dutch merchant vessel convoyed by the above-named battleship and carrying the Government passengers, their families and merchandise belonging to the Government and intended for the Government of the Indies.

The shipment of merchandise and passengers will be closely watched by Government officials. The baggage will also be examined, and private correspondence is forbidden. The vessels will carry neither mail nor post parcels. Merchandise will only be shipped when accompanied by certificates showing their origin in accordance with existing arrangements.

The route taken by the ships will be by the Scotch Islands and the Cape of Good Hope. The sailing will take place in the early days of June next.

Under instructions to inform the Government of the United States of the foregoing I have the honor to have recourse to Your Excellency’s kindly good offices to that effect.

Be pleased to accept [etc.]

W. de Beaufort