800.8810/1159: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Consul General at Berlin (Messersmith)
The Roosevelt Steamship Company alleges that pressure is being and has been brought to bear upon German importers and exporters to confine [Page 477] their shipments to German ships. It is not known whether this pressure, which it is claimed has reached a stage of intimidation, comes from official or party sources. I wish you would discreetly investigate this matter and, if you are able to obtain the necessary concrete information, take it up directly and informally with the appropriate authorities.