362.1121 Simpson, Lawrence/330: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Consul General at Berlin (Jenkins)
Your October 13, 11 a.m. and October 14, 1 p.m.20 It appears from your October 14, 1 p.m., that Dr. Krone21 feels that a petition for Simpson’s pardon would not be considered prior to a year from the date of sentence, that is not before September 28, 1937. You are accordingly requested to seek another interview with Dr. Krone at an early date, and to point out to him the exceptional hardship that this [Page 303] involves in the present instance. In view of Simpson’s detention in prison for 15 months prior to trial, it would mean that he had largely completed his sentence before a petition for pardon would be entertained. On the other hand, a person who had been accorded a prompt trial would enjoy this privilege within a period of but a little more than a year. You should inquire whether in view of these considerations, and other mitigating facts, it would not be possible for the competent German authorities to consider an immediate petition for pardon and to permit Simpson, if he so desires, to proceed with the submission of such a petition.
In this event, you should also ascertain definitely (1) whether Simpson intends to take advantage of the opportunity to petition for a pardon; (2) the name of a lawyer who would be willing and who would be permitted to assist him, and (3) the estimated total expense involved.
Please inform us as early as practicable regarding these matters and add such recommendations and suggestions as you feel may be helpful. If the various factors in the situation permit of the presentation of a petition for pardon at this time we shall make inquiry regarding funds.