362.1154/12: Telegram

The Acting Secretary of State to the Consul General at Berlin (Messersmith)

Your despatch 1296, May 9,74 and previous despatches on the same subject. There is doubt in our minds as to the basis for claiming that the German action in this case involves any treaty violation. Naturally we would like to have the matter settled to the satisfaction of American interests, but we feel you should proceed with care, avoiding a position on which the Department may not be able to support you. Let us know on what articles you base your claims to treaty violations and to what extent the German authorities have concurred in your position. Unless you feel the situation is urgent report by mail.

Phillips
  1. Not printed.