740.00112 European War 1939/286
The German Chargé (Thomsen) to the Secretary of State
Mr. Secretary of State: By direction of my Government, I have the honor to advise Your Excellency of the following:
Neutral merchant ships have repeatedly attempted in the waters around France and England to evade the exercise of the right of German naval forces, granted by international law, of stoppage and search. Besides, they have repeatedly aroused suspicion of attack or unneutral acts, by improper behavior.
[Page 753]The Government of the Reich therefore begs to call the attention of American merchant vessels traveling into the waters mentioned to the fact that, in their own interest, and in order to prevent confusion with naval or auxiliary ships of the enemy, especially at night, they should avoid any suspicious behavior, particularly change of course and use of the radio apparatus upon sighting German naval forces, zigzagging, screening lights, failing to obey a demand to stop, and the acceptance of convoy by naval forces of the powers at war with Germany.
Accept [etc.]