862.001W64/80: Telegram

The Commission to Negotiate Peace to the Acting Secretary of State

3247. Referring Hague’s 6521, July 1, 6 p.m., and 6557 July 10, 6 p.m. The following further telegram from The Hague has been received as number 315, July 15, 6 p.m.8

“My British colleague informs me that van Karnebeek has talked to him at length in regard to the ex-Kaiser question and after sketching in so many words the ridiculous position in which Clemenceau’s communication might place us if we really wanted to get the ex-Kaiser, remarked that he knew of [from] Mr. Lansing’s memorandum that the American Government was not in accord with policy being pursued. I have had no decisive answer from Department to my 6521, July 1, 6 p.m. (number 302 to you) and 6557 July 10, 6 p.m. (number 311 to you).[”]

[Page 657]

American Mission has replied as follows

“Your telegram 302, July 1, 6 p.m.; 311, July 10, 6 p.m.; and 315, July 15, 6 p.m. Copies of pamphlet containing memorandum by Mr. Lansing and Doctor Scott have been sent to you by courier. Your non-committal attitude in the matter of the case against the Emperor and Crown Prince is approved. As the note which was handed in by the French Charge d’Affaires was sent with American Mission’s knowledge and approval you should carefully avoid any expression of a statement which, if made known to our associates, would tend to question our good faith. American Mission will be glad to have you communicate fully whatever further information you may obtain regarding the subject matter of the cables.”

American Mission
  1. Also received at the Department of State, as No. 6571.